Exploring Your Senses

Everyone has a natural tendency to lean towards different styles of learning, this is reflected in the different ways which people store memories. Understanding how your memories work is incredibly useful; knowing which senses are predominant, you can tailor exercises to suit your needs, streamlining the process and maximizing your efficiency.

Beyond that, the purpose of this exercise is to teach you to connect with your memories via your senses. A process which I like to refer to as anchoring. Without a complete connection with a memory, "reliving" it is impossible. Reliving memories is the ultimate way to access your memories in extreme detail. It's useful in numerous circumstances e.g. observing behaviorism, searching for specific pieces of information, and tapping into unresolved emotion.

Anchoring

The easiest method to connect to a memory is using emotion. So, initially, I suggest you practice with a strong—though positive—emotional memory, decide which one you'll be using in advance. More recent memories should be easier to work with, as all memories are subject to decay over time.

Make yourself comfortable in an area in which you won't be disturbed. You may find it helpful to close your eyes and/or utilize a breathing count throughout the duration of the exercise. When you're ready, begin.

Focus upon the memory in question. Initially, consider the situation itself. What about it specifically provides the emotional tone? Had you visited the location previously? Did you have any special attachment to it? Were there any people present? If so, what was your relationship with them? Did they arouse any particular emotional reaction in you on the day?

In this way, you casually turn the memory over in your mind, intuitively bringing yourself closer to the emotional peak of the event.

Now you're there; pay attention to the way you felt, specifically your emotions. Consider why you felt that way. Channel the emotion, drawing it closer... and closer, gradually let it fill you. Once again, allow yourself to feel.

Become aware of your thoughts and physical sensations. Contemplate temperature, texture, discomfort and pleasure.

Breathe deeply. Do you notice a lingering aroma in the air or a taste upon your tongue?

Recognize any noises. Perhaps you hear music playing, the whirring of technology, the softly spoken murmur of family or friends.

Look around your memory, it's yours to explore in as much detail as you wish. You will find that you can move freely. If something catches your eye move towards it and take a closer look. Think over what it means to you, and why it caught your attention.

When satisfied, at your own pace, move through the memory, stopping and starting as you feel the need.

Afterwards, consider which senses were dominant. Why do you think that is? If you feel inclined to explore this further pick another memory from a different time period and repeat the exercise. Did you find any differences? If so, do you have any theories as to why?