Gentle Enhancement is a foundation of the HANDLE® paradigm.
This concept states that gently strengthening systems is more effective and efficient because stressed systems often shut down so the body/brain can focus on survival and protection. Thus in HANDLE we gently enhance capabilities toward efficient functioning by only offering as much input as each individual can take in at any given time, thereby minimizing frustration, meltdowns, and giving up.
Stressed systems don’t get stronger. Therefore, rather than striving to “get it done,” or “get it all done now,” we strive for efficiency: doing what you want or need to do with the least amount of energy and the least amount of stress.
Stress activates the sympathetic nervous system. The body’s natural resources become dedicated to the fight or flight response leaving few resources available for other processes, such as maintenance and repair internally, and learning and behavior externally.
The fight or flight response protects us from any threat to safety. For an individual with sensitive systems too much input, innocent offenders in the environment or being asked to process information faster than they are able may be perceived as a threat. Because most of us tend to override our own stress to “get things done,” HANDLE Practitioners teach observable indicators of a stress response, so we can notice them in ourselves and others we are supporting in their HANDLE program.
Examples are:
reddening ears (ask me about that one!)
changes in breathing
suddenly not being able to do something after previously being able to do it
Most people are aware that a sustained stress response may cause health problems such as: digestion/absorption problems, immune system problems, sleep disorders, even cardiac conditions. The HANDLE paradigm asserts that stress interferes with cognitive function, influences mental health, and alters the structure of the brain. This assertion is now validated in neuroscientific research.
People who are taught HANDLE activities are instructed to stop a particular activity for that day at the first sign of stress. A state change signals that the person has received as much input as can be used at that time for the brain to begin to create new pathways to allow for new functioning, and more would produce stress. Stressed systems don’t grow and learn. We invite everyone to use Gentle Enhancement in their everyday lives; it might be surprising how much more you get done with significantly less stress and irritation!