1. Experiential Learning:
The Cycle Tool

2. Reconsolidation Paradox
Brain States needed for activation: 4 and 5
Brain State optimal for targeted neuroplasticity: 1
1
2
3
4
5

3. Reconsolidation Paradox
Cycle Tool and limbic connection fill in the “gap” to
enable targeted adaptive neuroplasticity.
1
Tools and
Support
2
3
4
5

4. The Cycle Tool
• Strong Counter-memories
Targeted, self-directed neuroplasticity for erasing circuits
without always requiring co-regulation with a provider.
• Avoids Relaxation without Reconsolidation
Relaxation results in missed opportunity to reconsolidate.
• Promotes Emotional Evolution
Uses stress to target unreasonable expectation and hedonic
reward and reconsolidate as reasonable expectation and
eudonic reward.
• Effective Self-regulation
Facilitates rapid switch from Brain State 4 to Brain State 1.

5. The Cycle Tool
BRAIN STATE 1: UNLOCK THE CIRCUIT
Just the Facts:
State the facts. What are you most stressed about. Do not
express feelings. 2 or 3 sentences only.
Express Allostatic Anger (“A+ Anger”)
Express anger, in short, choppy sentences, really get angry. I
feel angry that . . I can’t stand it that . . I hate it that . . . Up
to 20 times.

6. The Cycle Tool
BRAIN STATE 3: SWITCH THE CIRCUIT
State and Feel Homeostatic Feelings
(Sadness, Fear, Guilt) State 1 to 3 sentences for each
feeling, pausing between statements to feel the feeling.
Unreasonable Expectation? Of course you would feel
guilty that . . . Because your unreasonable expectation is . . .
(Most common: I do not exist. I am bad. I have no power.)
Reasonable Expectation? What is the reasonable
expectation? (Most common: I do exist. I am not bad. I do
have power.)

7. The Cycle Tool
BRAIN STATE 1: LOCK IN NEW CIRCUIT
•
Grind In (Repeat opposite): Based on Hebb’s
Law, neurons that fire together wire together and get
stronger and the opposite ones get weaker. State the
opposite to weaken the circuit. (Add the word “not”).
First repeat slowly without emotion. Then with
enthusiasm. Finally spiral up to Brain State 1 (positive
affect, even singing and dancing 5 to 50 times).
•
Connecting Message by clinician or support
group participants: When you did your Cycle, the
feelings and sensations in my body were . . The way your
work was a gift to me was . . .

8. Experiential Learning:
Audio Program 2: Cycle Tool