How Your Brain’s Interpretation Shapes Healing
When your heart races and your stomach flips, are you afraid or excited? The truth is, your body reacts the same way in both cases. What makes the difference is how your brain interprets those signals.
The Science in Simple Terms
Both fear and excitement light up similar parts of the brain and trigger the same body response—faster heartbeat, quick breathing, heightened awareness.
What changes the experience is the label we give it: “danger” becomes fear, while “opportunity” becomes excitement.
Why This Matters for Vision Therapy
Starting neuro-optometric rehabilitation or vision therapy can feel overwhelming. Many people—especially those recovering from concussions—fear they’ll be stuck with symptoms forever. Others worry about failing or about activities feeling too difficult.
These fears can slow progress.
But if we reframe those same body signals as signs that the brain is actively learning and adapting, fear shifts into hope. Even replacing the words “I can’t” with “I’m learning” keeps the brain open and flexible.
How to Apply This Every Day
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Notice your body signals—heart racing, butterflies—and remind yourself they can mean excitement, not just fear.
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Reframe challenges: “This feels tricky because my brain is learning.”
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Celebrate small wins and stay curious.
The Takeaway
Fear and excitement are two sides of the same coin. In vision therapy, learning to reframe fear into excitement unlocks motivation, resilience, and growth. Your brain has the power to change—and every step forward is proof that it’s working.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If this resonates with you or someone you love, reach out to learn how vision therapy can support your journey. We’re here to help your brain recover, adapt, and grow.
A new way of seeing, being and doing to self empowerment 💫
Shirley S. Ha, HBSc., OD, FOVDR, FNORA, COEP
Neuro-Developmental and Rehabilitative Optometrist
