Neurolinguistics and the Dharma

Neurolinguistics: the relationship between language and the structure and functioning of the brain.
Words affect our brain.

Ultimately, we are beings of pure awareness. Relatively, this pure awareness is locked into appearances in the mind to which it relates! There is a tenuous connection between our glimpses of pure awareness and the brain/mind being able to express this experience clearly; we are rather like stroke victims where connections have been broken, and we must make effort to rewire the brain (or become resistant and not bother).

When someone seems to be wilful, dogmatic or troll-like, this merely shows their lack of capacity in expressing themselves. We all know, but are locked into limitations of expression, ‘cherry picking’ to make a point which never stands up to ultimate reasoning. It stays at a relative level of ‘I’ – it’s all about me. The more understanding we have of this process, the more empathy and compassion we can apply.

The term ‘neurolinguistic programming’ is generally perceived as subversive suggestion. Advertisers, the media, politicians and propagandists use this method all the time; read up on Edward Bernays and Goebbels. We hear and we obey! If we hear a phrase enough times, we start to believe it. This is an outside source rewiring our brains; hence, we don’t have an original thought in our heads. Someone, somewhere, puts an idea into the collective system and it spreads like a virus. It’s meant to! This is clearly evident in social media where people are winding one another up all the time.

“Divide and rule”.

A few days ago, I wrote that genuine experience is beyond words, but that was after 45 years of personal study. So reading and studying does have an effect on the brain and mind, and gives us a code or formula to unlock this prison mind. This is how the Buddha’s teachings help us to see our complete picture. This is opposed to ordinary, everyday neurolinguistic programming that affects the way in which we relate to everything…they get inside your head!

So studying text and commentaries from the Buddha’s teachings makes a connection for us to express reality, put it to the test and gain confidence. We always have a choice whether to become biological parroting* robots or free spirits.

Unfortunately there is one other point in spiritual neurolinguistics, and that is sentimentality regarding the Buddha’s teachings, or rather, the guru. Smiley faces can hide a multitude of emotions. Realise the essence of the teachings and watch out for trappings** They aren’t called ‘trappings’ for nothing – we can become spiritual robots as well.

Spirituality is all about liberation from fixations.

*To parrot: To parrot slogans without appreciating their significance: repeat mindlessly, repeat mechanically, echo, say again.

** Trappings: trimmings, frills, accompaniments, extras, ornaments, ornamentation, adornment, decoration; regalia, paraphernalia, apparatus, finery, frippery, livery, fittings, accoutrements; appurtenances, appointments, equipage, equipment, gear, effects, things, panoply; baggage, impedimenta; informal bells and whistles, stuff, bits and pieces, bits and bobs