There is something the specialist who treated me for Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) told me right at the very beginning.
It was:
“Have fun.”
The brain has a part called the hippocampus, which is involved in memory, and this is also where things like smells can become associated with memories.
The neural pathways involved in memory become stronger through repeated experiences. At the same time, brain cells are constantly being renewed, which means that these pathways can also be changed.
That’s why the doctor told me that creating new neural pathways through plenty of enjoyable experiences could help ease my symptoms.
When you have difficult symptoms, it’s almost impossible not to focus your attention on them.
And as a natural defense mechanism, we instinctively try to detect and avoid whatever might be causing the symptoms as quickly as possible.
That is completely natural.
However, the more we repeat this pattern, the stronger the “cause → symptoms” pathway may become, potentially making the symptoms feel even worse.
But by continuing to look for small moments of fun and happiness, we can gradually create new pathways in the brain.
I also try, as much as possible, to think about enjoyable things every day and spend my time in a good mood.
Perhaps because of these efforts, my symptoms gradually improved. Although I haven’t recovered completely, I eventually reached a point where I could go about my daily life without major difficulties.
Have fun.
Think about things you enjoy.
Spend time in a good mood.
When you’re going through a difficult time, these things may not be easy at all.
But if you can create even a few small moments like these, they might help your mind and body relax, even just a little.
I’d like to write, little by little, about the things I’ve tried over the years, as I remember them.
Thank you, as always, for reading! 😊