Body Vs Mind: Round 1

Ever feel like you’re watching your thoughts take over, instead of steering them where you want? It’s easy to get trapped in your head and forget you can choose a different direction. This episode of the Truth About Dyslexia podcast dives into Tony Robbins’ mind-shift technique and asks if it really works for those of us with dyslexia or ADHD.

We explore the essence of taking charge of your mind, share how it aligns (or doesn’t) with a neurodiverse perspective, and wrap up with some real-talk on practical methods. If you’ve ever suspected your mind was having a party and forgot to send you the invite, you’ll find this discussion relatable.

The Mind Is Powerful, But Are We Really In Control?

You might have heard that we can master our mental and emotional states if we “decide” to do it. Yet if you’re dyslexic or have ADHD, that’s often easier said than done. Our minds are wired differently and improvisation can be more common than structure.

In the podcast, we chat about how traditional techniques that rely on heavy discipline can clash with how our neurodiverse brains actually work. It’s not about criticising Tony Robbins, but about recognising when certain approaches need a tweak to fit our unique thinking styles.

Tony Robbins’ Technique In A Nutshell

Tony Robbins often says that you can instantly change your emotional state by changing your focus and physical stance. Picture yourself standing tall, breathing deeply, and forcing a big smile. It sounds simple, right? The idea is that external changes influence your internal world.

“Your mind can be your best friend or your worst enemy; you decide which one shows up.”

That was a key highlight in the conversation. This approach might sound inspiring, but it raises some big questions for alternative thinkers.

Why It Matters For Dyslexia And ADHD

We can be extra sensitive to shifts in our environment or daily routine. One minute, we’re hyper-focused on a project. The next, we’re scrolling through social media. Techniques based on immediate state changes can feel odd if our brains are used to roller-coaster rides.

• Fast thinking: ADHD or dyslexia can lead to rapid thought patterns that shift before you can catch them.
• Emotional leaps: Mood swings can happen more frequently, so it’s tough to hold onto one feeling for long.
• Physical cues: Posture and breathing are helpful, but they might only partially calm our busy minds.

The question isn’t whether it’s impossible, but whether you can adapt this technique to fit how your mind naturally operates.

Adaptation: Making The Technique Your Own

We suggest experimenting with Tony’s method rather than following it by the book. Sometimes, smaller steps or a mix of strategies can be friendlier to a dyslexic or ADHD brain. Here are a few ideas we discuss in the episode:

1. Short Bursts:

   Try changing your posture for just a minute at a time. If you feel calmer or more in control, that’s progress.

2. Interrupt The Spiral:

   Catch your racing thoughts by doing something that shocks your senses, like splashing cold water on your face.

3. Build Supportive Routines:

   Combine physical triggers like posture shifts with a favourite tune or a quick doodle break. Make it fun.

These suggestions give you room to breathe. You don’t have to leap into a full 5am wake-up and triumphant fist pump. Flexibility is key.

Key Takeaways

• You can adapt Tony’s techniques to fit a neurodiverse mind.
• Simple posture shifts, short breaks, and sensory resets can help.
• Rigid routines may not be ideal, but small consistent actions often work.
• Stay curious about what your mind needs in the moment.

Curious to hear more? The podcast player is at the top of this page. Hit play and dive into the full episode. If you’ve tried similar techniques before, your experiences might give you fresh insights. Go on, give it a listen. Your mind might thank you.