The reticular activating system (RAS) is a part of the brain that filters information to determine what we pay attention to and what we ignore. It's this filtering mechanism that determines, in large part, how we experience our reality each day, and that’s why understanding it and making use of it can be so beneficial.
Background
The reticular activating system, or RAS, was first described in 1948 by the American psychologist James Olds and his colleagues in his article Positive Reinforcement Produced by Electrical Stimulation of the Septal Area and Other Regions of the Hypothalamus. Although he didn’t know it at the time, Olds had discovered one of the most important parts of the brain when it comes to our ability to organize and create positive experiences in our lives. Understanding how this area works will help you to use it to your advantage to create success where you might not have before.
What is RAS?
The reticular activating system is a part of your brain that filters information. It's often referred to as the brain's filter or sieve. The RAS helps us concentrate on what we want and filter out what we don't want, which plays a role in decision-making, learning, and creativity. This can also be bad because it prevents us from being aware of new things.
Where does RAS Exist?
The reticular activating system (RAS) is a mechanism of the brain that plays a role in how you perceive your environment. The RAS filters out what you don't need to see and heightens your awareness of things that are important or present danger.
The 3 Types of RAS Stimulation
The RAS is one of the most important parts of our brains. There are three types of stimulation that can be done: sensory, cognitive, and motor. These three different types allow for a high level of control over what we think about, what we create, and what we do.
Example Real World Applications
The reticular activating system is a filter that regulates what you notice. It's like a spotlight in your brain—it directs attention and awareness. You can use it to focus on what you want and ignore what you don't want. Here are some practical applications of this knowledge:
When you're looking for something, be aware of what isn't there as well as what is there.
Think about how much time you spend looking at screens (computers, phones, TVs). Turn off all screens for one hour each day. Notice how your perception changes over time!
Spend more time in nature. Notice how nature has its own way of directing your attention? A beautiful tree will always take up more space in your field of vision than an ugly building, even if they are exactly the same size.
Take note of where you feel compelled to look and enjoy how this simple change in perspective can alter how you experience reality.
If you’re ready to achieve your goals, create the life you want and enjoy more happiness than you ever thought possible, then pay close attention to how the reticular activating system works and how you can use it to create whatever reality you want in your life.
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