In our previous post, the focus was on mirroring love back to others.  This blog article will deal with the discovery of “mirror neurons” in the brain a little less than 20 years ago and its effect on how we inter-relate to one another.  As neuroscientists gained access to more advanced brain imaging technology, the study of the human brain has come a long way since the “decade of the brain” in the 1990′s.  The discovery of the “mirror neuron system” by a research group of Italian neuroscientists opened the door to the “science of empathy”.  Empathy deals with the experiencing as one’s own the feelings of another person.  The key factor that was uncovered about the “mirror neuron system” was the element of intentionality or acting with intention.  Amazingly, this aspect proved true even between humans and the monkeys being studied during this breakthrough in brain research.

There is a distinct “mirror neuron system” circuitry found in the the brain. Therefore, neuroscientist are beginning to talk about the hard-wiring of the human brain for connecting with one another or resonating with one another.  In this newly developing “science of empathy” through the mirroring of one another, the understanding of our connection to one another and linkage at brain level is going through a transformation.  Neuroscientists are introducing us to the awareness that relationships are woven into the fabric of our interior worlds.  As described by the UCLA neuroscientist, Daniel J. Siegel, M.D., “we come to know our own minds through interactions with others.”  The famous quote “no man is an island” is more true on a cellular level than was previously understood.  Now, scientists know that the brain is a social organ and our relationships are essential nutrients for survival. Therefore, how we connect and link with one another is crucial for our ongoing survival.  We can create resonance (harmony) together or we can mirror back isolation, distrust, and differences.  Each choice will create a very different outcome when moved from the personal level to that of the community or society.

Knowing that we can singularly choose with intention and that decision will have an impact on the “mirror neuron system” of one’s friends, family members, spouse or life partner, and/or work companions elevates our decision-making.  Some one else in my inner circle (and beyond) can and may imitate what I have chosen.  These individuals can (and may) mirror me.  I guess that is where the concept of “going viral” originates.  Needless to say, I have attempted to encapsulate the brilliant neuro-scientific advances over the past two decades with regard to mirror neurons.  This is not an easy task; however, (for me) it boils down to what do I want to mirror in myself and for others.  If my brain has the neural structures hardwired within me to mirror intentionally, do I want to position my “mirror” on that which is magnificent in others or allow for mediocrity?  If I literally was holding up a mirror and knew that this relational process would increase and intensify magnificence in my friends, loved ones, co-workers, etc., you bet I would do that!

Get your “mirrors” out and reflect back the best in those around you.  Focus on their strengths and character virtues, rather than on what needs to be improved.  Watch what happens and share your results with us on this weekly blog….