As discussed earlier, the limbic system is the mechanism of the brain that controls our survival instincts in response to three general areas basic to human existence: food, sex and safety. The limbic system is the seat of addiction. When we feel unsafe, survival mode kicks in using these three modes of existence. Food addictions, sex addictions and safety addictions have their birth here.
Safety addictions are the most subtle and simultaneously the most medicated. Negative emotions aren’t the only way to cope for safety. Over-active or hyper-ego would also apply. Safety addictions are easy to get away with as athletes who have human growth hormones flowing through their system on a regular and consistent basis. We can get by feeling better our selves through our physical prowess.
Food addiction is sabotaging the health of America with a reckless ferocity.
Sexual addiction is hardly discussed and is just as significant to our current society as the others.
If we are going to be better athletes, we must also become better people- masters at living the art of life in every way; not just the physical way. Coping is weakness. Vulnerability is courageous. Pony up!
Why do you do what you do? Why do you feel the way you feel in certain situations? What threatens you, stresses you, angers you, makes you feel loved, makes you feel rejected? How does this affect your potential and your performance? Know yourself and see the difference!
