Four Modes, Eight Functions--Part 3--Seeking Sustainability

This week we will be exploring the Left Basal (back) section of our brains. This part of our brain seeks to create sustainable results. It is linked more to the past than the two front lobes. Maintaining routines, seeing concrete results and honoring traditions are all part of what our brain seeks through the Left Basal Mode.

There are two types of functions in the Left Basal section of our brain. One is extroverted and the other is introverted. Together they help our brain to establish habits and routines.

The extroverted Sustainability seeking function seeks tangible results. The individual who leads with this function seeks to repeat all experiences both pleasant and unpleasant. The goal is to feel fully alive and in touch with the body. One of the reward centers of the brain is located in this area of the brain. One of their greatest gifts is the ability to practice a task over and over. Competitive athletes generally have this area of their brains highly activated. Extroverted Sustainability seekers are drawn to activities and experiences that are stimulating to the senses. Their goal is to sustain excitement and physical sensation. They are drawn to people and things that allow them to repeatedly stimulate their reward center. People with strong emphasis in this area of the brain are not interested in talking about ideas, but rather want to see immediate and tangible results.

One of the challenges of overusing this function is zeal or fanaticism. When this happens there is a tendency to overdo, take unnecessary risks and like the mythical Icarus, try to fly too close to danger. Working excess energy out through exercise or athletic competitions can keep this function grounded.

The introverted Sustainability seeking function has a strong desire for safety and stability. Individuals who lead with this function are dependable, organized and conscientious. Their motto is "Duty First". The desire to serve and protect is strong and these individuals can always be counted on to get the job done. Change of any kind poses a threat to these people. They prefer to keep things the same in an effort to create stability. They look to what has worked in the past and want to maintain the status quo.The introverted sustainability seeker will create rituals and traditions that preserve tribal stability. They are more interested in history than in the future. One of the challenges for individuals who lead with this function is worry and anxiety. Mindfulness meditation is the best tool for overuse of this function. By calming the anxious mind, the brain can think more clearly. Because most worries are based upon past challenging experiences, mindfulness helps to bring the anxious mind to the present. I highly recommend Stephen Cope's Body Scan Meditation. It is 10 minutes long and if practiced daily, will lower your anxiety level.

If you would like to know more about your personal Astro-Brain Dynamics, visit my website

Brain Boost---Check out this article on the effects of worry on your brain.

Till next week....