1) "Lightbulb Moment" –
a moment of sudden inspiration, revelation, or recognition.
Find Your Healing "Lightbulb" Moment
Neural retraining, like most things in life, is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. For us, DNRS was our first “lightbulb” moment, but there have been many more since. Below is a list of the best-known neural retraining resources I have found to date, listed alphabetically. Since the pandemic, all are mostly if not fully online and via Zoom. I encourage you to keep researching as new resources seem to come online frequently, but this is a good starting point.
In each description, I have attempted to capture the essence of each program without making actual recommendations – each person will have his or her own “right fit.” Also, I am unable to go into actual methodology in order to protect copyrights of the programs. But what I CAN say is … I have reviewed each program (unless otherwise noted) and believe they each address ways to heal from NICS.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Several of the programs talk about the importance of dedicating at least one hour a day to the techniques. It has been our experience that if this is daunting enough that it might be triggering to you … know that YOU CAN WORK UP TO IT MORE SLOWLY than what is called for and still see progress. ANY amount of time you spend on the techniques is helpful. If you can spend five minutes for five days in a row, then you might work up to ten minutes, and so on. (It is easy for perfectionist tendencies to get in the way of engaging a program, but try not to let them.) Also, some programs recommend that you quit talking about your condition/illness altogether, for valid reasons (the subconscious brain eavesdrops on everything you say); while that might work well for most people, we found that after having gone through such a traumatic experience as a prolonged debilitating and isolating illness/condition, we needed to pair the concepts of neural retraining with additional trauma-informed therapy. We have worked with our clinicians to help them understand the goals of neural retraining, so they can further support the healing process.
When your child or teen is sick: Understanding the concept of healing through neuroplasticity is hard enough for an adult, but it can be especially difficult for young people who have limited life experience to draw upon, not to mention that their brains are not yet fully developed. As parents of sick children, the best we can do is to do our homework, then follow our instinct as to what might work best for our child. I wish there were a neural retraining program designed especially for children and teens, but I am not yet aware of one.
If you wish to ask me direct questions about each program as they may pertain to your own situation, I am happy to answer to the best of my ability. Contact Me
Pricing information below is current as of November 2023. Please check individual websites for the most up-to-date information.
CURABLE Pain Relief App (for iOS devices) – This is an excellent app created specifically to treat chronic pain of any kind, from fibromyalgia to back pain to migraines to pelvic pain. However, I find this to be appropriate for all neuro-immune conditioned syndromes – just swap out “pain” for CFS, POTS, or whatever your chronic challenge is. The program – created by a team of board-certified physicians, pain psychologists, physical therapists and neuroscientists – delivers brief but excellent lessons on the neuroscience and physiology of pain, with evidence-based explanations on why neuroplastic approaches to pain management are highly effective. If pain is your primary symptom, this is an especially good starting point.
- The initial download and basic lessons are FREE and are well worth exploring. Additional support is available for $5.99-$11.99/mo (based on an annual subscription).
- They also offer 12-week small Curable Groups led by an experienced facilitator.
Dynamic Neural Retraining System™ [DNRS] – This Canadian-based program has become especially popular in Canada and the US, as this was the first neural retraining program to offer in-person programs in those countries. It has also gained traction in Finland and the UK. The online course was completely updated in late 2022, and the course and small groups are now done 100% virtually, which makes it accessible to everyone. The content is comprehensive and easy to understand, and the new program offers additional support tools.
- Available via an online streaming course for $349.95 for a one year subscription ($20/month, $240/annually thereafter if you wish to continue having access). One-to-one coaching is available via phone or videoconference for an additional fee. Once you purchase a program you receive access to a members-only online forum where you can ask questions, buddy up with another retrainer, etc.
- “Living DNRS” is a 12-week online interactive support resource to provide community, accountability, connection and guidance to implement DNRS,” and is available for 3 payments of $100, or a one-time fee of $289; this is available to people who have already completed the online program, and you receive a $40 coupon toward Living DNRS with purchase of the full online program.
- Learn more about the Feldenkrais Method®: International Feldenkrais Federation
- Anat Baniel Method® – Check back for the latest offerings..
- Feldenkrais Guild of North America (FGNA)
The Gupta Program™ – This UK-based program includes high-quality video and a new modular format, including access to several audio tracks of meditations and other mindfulness tools specifically designed for retrainers. The program features a rich, multi-layer approach to retraining, touching upon nearly every challenge a retrainer might encounter or worry about. Ashok Gupta has thought of nearly everything. With the addition of a new live webinar series every three months, you can attain a level of connection nearly equal to in-person events, but from the comfort of your own home and at a much lower cost.
- The first 3 sessions are free. Thereafter, available via an online streaming course (starting at $349 for a one year subscription and $50/year thereafter if you choose to renew). You may also purchase a separate 3-month webinar series with Ashok (currently $119 … but you get one FREE series with the purchase of a full subscription) with once-a-week live videoconferencing where you receive additional program support and where you can ask Ashok questions in real time. Having done a webinar series, it is similar to an in-person experience but at a fraction of the cost. One-to-one online or phone coaching is available for an additional fee. Once you purchase a program you receive access to a members-only FaceBook group where you can ask questions, buddy up with another retrainer, get daily inspiration, etc.
The Lightening Process® – This UK-based program is better known in the UK and many European countries. I am not as familiar with the LP program, as you can only go so far with online materials before needing to engage an LP coach. But the online materials are inexpensive comparatively speaking, and they contain information about the brain and neuroplasticity that will resonate for anyone struggling with a chronic condition. The coaching seems to be highly effective (as demonstrated by this documentary), and there are currently online options for intro info and training.
“Mind Over Medicine: Scientific Proof That You Can Heal Yourself” – Although this book is not an online guided program in the same way as those above, I believe this book is a must read for anyone wishing to optimize their health. “We’ve been led to believe that when we get sick, it’s our genetics. Or it’s just bad luck—and doctors alone hold the keys to optimal health. Therefore when Dr. Lissa Rankin’s own health started to suffer, she turned to Western medical treatments, but what she found was that they not only failed to help; they made her worse. So she decided to take matters into her own hands. Through her research, Dr. Rankin discovered that the health care she had been taught to practice was missing something crucial: a recognition of the body’s innate ability to self-repair and an appreciation for how we can control these self-healing mechanisms with the power of the mind. To better understand this phenomenon, she explored peer-reviewed medical literature and found evidence that the medical establishment had been proving that the body can heal itself for over 50 years.”
Much of the book focuses on the scientific case for the brain-mind-body connection, but later chapters provide insightful information and check lists that may change the way you view medicine. “Her unique six-step program will help you uncover where things might be out of whack in your life … so that you can create a customized treatment plan aimed at bolstering these health-promoting pieces of your life.”
- Available in bookstores or via Amazon ($16.89). Also available as an audio book.
- NOTE: Dr. Rankin has made it a mission to find a way to help those who may not have the financial and/or emotional resources needed to access programs such as these. Please see “Professional and Non-Profit Organizations” below for more information about her latest project, healatlast.org.
re-origin® – This is one of the newer online programs and is described as “a self-directed neuroplasticity program developed by Ph.D. neuroscientists and clinical psychologists to help you break the cycle of chronic illness & anxiety, naturally.” The founder was bedridden himself for 3+ years due to Chronic Lyme Disease, and is now fully recovered, thriving, and helping others recover their health through a neuroplastic approach. I did the initial free trial modules and found the premise and information to be similar to the Gupta Program and DNRS, but the founder’s personality, and the video style, may resonate better for some people. Currently, they offer a free live Zoom Q&A session each week for those interested in learning more.
- The basic program, “Reset,” is currently $297 for one year access, but you can add different levels of coaching at the time of purchase, at discounted rates. Click for current program pricing options.
ADDITIONAL: Trauma-Informed Therapy Resources – For some, a neural retraining program alone is not enough. Through our journey, we came to understand the importance of clearing trauma, whether it’s trauma with a small ‘t’ or a large ‘T.’ Make no mistake, all sorts of unresolved traumas can lead to illness and chronic conditions, and no, it’s not all in your head. The experience of an extended illness in and of itself can be very traumatic. If you are unable to engage in a retraining program, or you hit a significant setback that you cannot overcome despite coaching, it may be helpful to connect with additional resources for trauma-informed therapy such as:
*We have personal experience working with therapists who were trained in EMDR and IFS, and we found the modalities to be effective. EMDR is now covered under the health systems in several countries. Best results are obtained when working with a trained clinician who is a right fit for you. Also, the Gupta Program incorporates IFS-like principles throughout.
PROFESSIONAL and NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS – There is still a long way to go before mainstream medicine (and insurance companies!) begin to fully integrate brain-mind-body treatments as part of regular patient care, but organizations are beginning to pop up around the world thanks to the dedication of those who have recovered and wish to spread the wisdom ahead of concluded research. If you know of or run an organization not yet listed here, feel free to email me.
- HealAtLast.org – The brainchild of Lissa Rankin, MD, Heal At Last’s mission is: … to bring people in recovery from illness, injury, or trauma together in circles of healing for the purposes of improving physical and mental health outcomes, particularly for people who conventional medicine has been unable to cure. Using cutting edge trauma healing methods, spiritual healing, energy medicine, movement, art, and music, we empower individuals and communities of healing who are ready for the deep dive of treating the root causes of personal and collective suffering. We believe healing and transformation is your birthright and should not be limited to people of privilege. Heal At Last is committed to bringing deep healing work to anyone who is emotionally and spiritually ready for radical transformation, regardless of socioeconomic status, race, gender identity, political affiliation, or religion.
- NOTE: I have followed Dr. Rankin’s work for some time and believe that this organization will be appropriate for people from all walks of life regardless of religious, spiritual or non-religious-spiritual beliefs. However, an open mind is helpful. I believe Alaina is well today because we were willing to open our minds to the evidence presented by modern neuroscience.
- Psychophysiologic Disorders Association (PPDA) – Co-founded by David C. Clark, MD; Rob Munger, MA, MS; Howard Schubiner, MD; and Alan Gordon, LCSW. Check out their Resources Page, which includes a provider search tool. MISSION STATEMENT: The Psychophysiologic Disorders Association (PPDA), founded in 2009 and incorporated in 2011, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to end the chronic pain epidemic and opioid crisis by advancing the awareness, diagnosis and treatment of neuroplastic symptoms that affect millions worldwide. These real, physical symptoms (generated in the brain) include chronic pain, migraine, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue, pelvic pain, and other chronic or medically unexplained symptoms and are collectively referred to as Psychophysiologic Disorders.
- NOTE: Personally, I believe having the word “psychology” associated with this type of work does a disservice to those who are suffering very real physical conditions, because it somehow harkens back to the notion that “it’s all in your head,” which is NOT the case. I hope this organization will undergo a name change in the future.
- Recovery Norway – Another great source of hope and inspiration. From their web site: Recovery Norway was initiated in 2017 and formally established as a Norwegian organization in 2018. It was expanded as an international network in 2019. Recovery consists of people who have recovered from ME/CFS (myalgic encephalopathy or chronic fatigue syndrome) and similar health issues. Its mission is to create understanding of the health problems as well as justified hope of recovery based on our members’ stories, experiences and insights. We believe this can lead to solutions to illnesses that are often presented as ‘mysteries’ of health and disease.
2) INSPIRATION Beyond Testimonials
In case you need additional convincing of the miraculous power of the brain …
The Backwards Brain Bicycle (7:58) This is a great – and fun – segment that illustrates how rewiring your brain can take time, but if you practice consistently, one day the “switch will flip.” This is compelling motivation for neural retainers: It is a reminder that neural rewiring can take longer for some people than others, but if you keep at it, the switch will eventually flip.
TEDx Talk: The Woman Who Changed Her Brain (13:57) How one woman overcame “serious genetic brain impairments” through self-directed neural retraining.
TED Talk: My Stroke of Insight: Jill Bolte Taylor (20:12) What happens when a neuroscientist suffers a stroke herself … an amazing and inspiring story.
TEDx Talk: Is There Scientific Proof We Can Heal Ourselves? (18:50) New age gurus suggest that we can heal ourselves by simply changing our minds, but is this concept grounded in cold, hard science? Lissa Rankin, MD explores the scientific literature, reviewing case studies of spontaneous remission, as well as placebo and nocebo effect data, to prove that our thoughts powerfully affect our physiology when we believe we can get well.
TEDx Talk: After Watching This, Your Brain Will Not Be the Same (14:25) In a classic research-based TED Talk, Dr. Lara Boyd discusses how neuroplasticity gives you the power to shape your brain.
Interview with Renowned Neuroplasticty Pioneer, Dr. Michael Merzenich (51:01) Dr. Merzenich has published more than 150 articles in leading peer-reviewed journals (such as Science and Nature), received numerous awards and prizes (including the Russ Prize, Ipsen Prize, Zülch Prize, Thomas Alva Edison Patent Award and Purkinje Medal), and been granted nearly 100 patents for his work. He and his work have been highlighted in hundreds of books about the brain, learning, rehabilitation, and plasticity.
From Boy with the “Broken Brain” to Renowned Memory Advisor To World Leaders (11:30) After a childhood brain injury left him learning-challenged, Jim Kwik created strategies that dramatically enhanced his mental performance, becoming a sought-after expert in speed-reading, accelerated learning and memory improvement.
GOOD READS:
Rankin MD, L. (2020) Mind Over Medicine – REVISED EDITION: Scientific Proof That You Can Heal Yourself. Hay House Publishing
Rediger MD, J. (2020) CURED: The Life-Changing Science of Spontaneous Healing. Flatiron Books
Hopper, A. (2014) Wired for Healing: Remapping the Brain to Recover from Chronic and Mysterious Illnesses. The Dynamic Neural Retraining System
Doidge MD, N. (2016) The Brain’s Way of Healing: Remarkable Discoveries and Recoveries from the Frontiers of Neuroplasticity. Penguin Books
Doidge MD, N. (2007) The Brain That Changes Itself: Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science. Penguin Books
Amen MD, D. G. (2015) Change Your Brain; Change Your Life (Revised). Three Rivers Press
3) Finally ... Some Complementary [and free] Resources Worth Exploring
“Iceman” Wim Hof on Impact Theory (44:00) Good interview with Dutch extreme athlete Wim Hof. Hof has developed a worldwide following of devotees of his unique combination of breathing technique and cold exposure. “Hof says that his method will lead to tangible health benefits: more energy, lowered stress levels and an improved immune system. For him, it enables seemingly superhuman feats of endurance, brought on, he says, by the physiological changes that his breathing techniques impart.” [Discover Magazine, “Can Breathing Like Wim Hof Make Us Superhuman?” July 6, 2017]
From Wikipedia: Wim Hof … is noted for his ability to withstand extreme cold, which he attributes to his Wim Hof Method (WHM) breathing techniques. Hof says that the WHM can treat or help alleviate symptoms of illnesses such as multiple sclerosis, arthritis, diabetes, clinical depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and cancer.
Hof has set out to spread the potential health benefits of his breathing techniques, working with scientists around the world to prove that his techniques work. A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America stated that by consciously hyperventilating, Hof can increase his heart rate, adrenaline levels, and blood alkalinity. Hof is the subject of The New York Times bestselling book What Doesn’t Kill Us, which tells the story of how the investigative journalist Scott Carney took an assignment to debunk the WHM but ended up learning Hof’s techniques.
Wim Hof Breathing Tutorial by Wim Hof [10:07] Wim Hof Breathing guided by Wim Hof himself explained with the science behind it. An Internet search will turn up numerous videos and articles about Wim Hof and the Wim Hof Method.
Click here for an e-booklet on THE WIM HOF METHOD EXPLAINED – the science behind the method.
A personal favorite is The Meaning of Life Experiment video series, created by Ashok Gupta of the Gupta Program. This is an especially good complement to neural retraining, and even though the accompanying meditation app is no longer supported, I created a YouTube playlist catalog with all the videos. These can be woven into your own religious or spiritual practices, but they are equally relevant even if you are not particularly spiritual.
Is Therapy Facing a Revolution? EFT with Dr. Peta Stapleton [16:23] This is an excellent introductory presentation about Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), also known as “tapping,” which is used to treat a number of conditions including chronic pain, obesity, anxiety and stress. This technique can be done easily on your own once you know the basics. Although there is some controversy about using EFT as part of a brain retraining program because of the emphasis on naming symptoms, I believe it is worth exploring as it does seem to physiologically engage the parasympathetic nervous system.
Note: The first time I had Alaina try tapping she was reluctant to engage in this “weird” technique … but she also yawned three times in the course of just a few rounds, which indicated to me (and to her) that the relaxation response was occurring despite her hesitancy.