EPIGENETICS: USING APPLIED CONSCIOUSNESS TO ACHIEVE

WELLNESS AND WELL-BEING

By Jim Walden, Ed.D., R.Hy.
Jim Walden (jwalden@hbeark.com) is an intuitive wellness and well-being coach who practices and
teaches clinical hypnotherapy, bioenergetics, and thought-field therapies. He believes healers are
people learning to be well, healing helpers are resourceful teachers and coaches, and wellness and wellbeing can be achieved and sustained through interactions of life-force energy and body-mind
intelligence. He will be a speaker at the ORI Mid-South Dowsing & Healing Energies Convention
being
held
April
25
29,
2008,
in
Fayetteville,
Arkansas.

What is Epigenetics?

Epigenetics may not be a familiar word, yet. However, it is gaining recognition among scientists and
health-care professionals as they change their beliefs about the programming of the human organism.
PBS recently aired a two-part program about this new area of cellular biology, and researchers are
explaining how reductionist philosophy (gaining understanding of the workings of organisms by
dissecting them into cells and then dividing the cells into molecular parts) is changing traditional
biology. As epigenetic research complexifies, more of the elegant simplicity of the body-minds design
is revealed; and, in my opinion, the revelations confirm the potentials of most holistic healing
approaches.
As a result of epigenetic investigations, we now understand how negative, fearful thoughts can cause
DNA strands to constrict and become entangled. Conversely, weve learned that positive, appreciative,
and loving thoughts can result in lengthened and relaxed DNA strands. Until recently, however, we
believed
that
we
were
victims
of
predetermined
birth
DNA and
genetics.
Epi means above; and, therefore, epigenetics is defined as control above the genes, i.e., a second
genetic code that controls the activity of genes and programming of DNA. This new science discovered
that environmental factors (energy connections, air quality, exercise, consciousness, diet, etc.) control
our gene expressions and the ways we function. Yes, this means that we are personally capable of
changing our gene expressions. Epigenetics encourages us to abandon obsolete beliefs that we are
victims of predetermined genetic codes and explains how perceptions of our inner and outer
environments shape our biology and behavior. Dr. Bruce H. Lipton (1), a cellular biologist, offered the
following
explanation:

This new hereditary mechanism reveals how behavior and gene activity are controlled by an organisms
perceptions of its environment. The fundamental difference between the old DNA genetic code and the
new epigenetics is that the former notion endorses genetic determinism--the belief that genes
predetermine and control our physiological and behavioral traits--while epigenetics recognizes that our
perceptions of the environment, including our consciousness, actively control our genes. Through
epigenetic mechanisms, applied consciousness can be used to shape our biology and make us masters of

our

own

lives.

Dr. Liptions statement reinforces the realization that our lives are controlled by perceptions of our life
experiences, rather than predetermined and unchanging genetic codes. Genes do not make decisions
about being turned on or off. They can be thought of as blueprints that provide potentials, and the
human body is structured to develop and regenerate itself from gene blueprints. The mind can be
thought of as the building contractor that adjusts DNA blueprints. In reality, we create our biology with
our
minds
based
on
perceptions
of
our
environments.
This radically remodeled perspective of traditional biology necessitated corresponding shifts into the
new supporting sciences of energy physics, vibrational chemistry, and energy psychology. Epigenetics
may necessitate the development of new holistic healing perspectives, as well. Certainly, the immaterial
mind and consciousness can no longer be dismissed as an epiphenomenon of a mechanistic body.

Epigenetics and other supporting sciences are teaching us that the body is not a single entity and that
its cells are members of a community, just as people are citizens of a community. It is a harmonious
community of possibly 50 trillion cells, and each cell has every function of the body in it. Liver cells
arent just liver cells. Each bodily system is present in every cell. All cells have receptors in their skin
that are tuned to chemical and electromagnetic vibrations. Signals of the brain control the readout of the
genes. Cells perceive the bodys inner environment and make bodily adjustments the same way the
outer skin reacts to perceptions of its environment. The cells perceptions of their community
environment change biology, chemically and electrically. Epigenetic controls select potentials from the
blueprints and genes are switched on or off. Life is determined as it happens.

Thoughts Play A Role In Epigenetic Mechanisms

Learning even basic epigenetic concepts should encourage greater attunement to the power of
thoughts. Many perceptions of our environment (diet, energy connections, air quality, exercise,
consciousness, etc.) are entwined with thought processes. If we understand that thoughts are an
interface between the inner cellular community and the outer environment, we can understand how
illness occurs and how wellness and well-being can be recreated. For example, the body-mind reacts to
fearful perceptions and thoughts by stopping growth, closing off blood flow to the forebrain, and
switching off the immune system. During a period of fearful reaction, the adrenal glands work to protect
the body against threats from the outside; however, the body does not manufacture new cells or grow
and the immune system does not protect the body against threats from the inside. Existing opportunistic
organisms (parasites, bacteria, viruses, etc.) that are normally suppressed by the immune system gain
strength, and illness occurs. Moreover, some excessive stress hormones destroy the bodys own tissue -particularly heart
tissue.
Imagine
the outcomes
of chronic
fear and stress.
Epigenetics encourages the belief that problems caused by the mind can be fixed by the mind. In order
for cells to respond positively, however, they must be given the right perceptual thought signals. An
estimated 70 percent of all continuous-loop thoughts running through our minds are negative and

redundant, however; and 95 percent of our life activity originates in the subconscious, which was
programmed by observing others. Subconscious programs may be thought of as everything we dont pay
attention to -- reactions versus responses. In order to change our thought patterns, and improve gene
responses, we need to think of the subconscious as a machine, which is not good or bad: just an
accumulation of programs that became established and dominate our thinking. The conscious and
subconscious minds do not communicate. Therefore, we must assume responsibility for eroding
unhealthy, reactive subconscious programs and devote time and repetitive effort to developing
mindfulness
that
will
facilitate
healthy
perceptions
of
our
environment.
Through exciting epigenetic research, we are learning that we can release thoughts of being fashioned
and controlled by our inherited genetic makeup and that we do not have to be victimized by selfperceived physicality. We can create our own unique physiological and behavioral traits through
applied consciousness. Science is confirming possibilities, and we are challenged to discover how to
fulfill our potential for becoming sentient (finely sensitive in perception or feeling) beings. Our
processes may include learning how to: ask the subconscious mind what is destroying wellness and
well-being; change perceptions of our environment; reframe feelings, thoughts, and emotions; and
facilitate
positive
cellular
communications
and
gene
responses.

You Can Create Your Own Unique Consciousness and Physicality

To create an example for fulfilling the potentials of epigenetic sciences, think about todays emphasis
on physical appearance. Ponder the many ways in which people spend billions of dollars to enhance
their perceptions of their exterior appearance: cosmetics, clothes, hair styles, surgeries, etc. Such
products and services may enhance self-confidence and self-satisfaction; but, they intensify an exterior
focus,
without
regard
for
inner
wellness
and
well-being.

The eminent question may be: How does my interior physiology look and how am I behaving?
Antidepressants are one of todays most frequently prescribed medications. This fact, alone, may
indicate that people are abdicating their self-empowerment. Imagine the possibilities if people were
asking: How can I apply my consciousness, change my perceptions of my environment, and reshape
my biology and behavior? Holistic teachers and coaches can help others develop healthy perceptions,
empower
their
body-mind,
and
improve
their
wellness
and
well-being.

People who become focused on their interior appearance may discover a true fountain of youth
within! Science is encouraging us to develop interior focus and to assume responsibility for body-mind
communication and wellness. Pursuit of this opportunity will challenge us to devise creative thought
tools for enhancing our energy connections and consciousness (in addition to improving diets, air
quality, exercise programs, etc.). The following suggestions can help you initiate a simple, effective
beginning:

Optimize Brain Function -

The brain is capable of developing new pathways and connections when we change perceptions and
thought patterns, and such changes may be necessary in order to develop healthy brain-to-cell signals.
Dr. Daniel G. Amen (2), M.D. and neuroscientist, suggests the following brain dos and donts, and many
others,
in Change
Your
Brain,
Change
Your
Life:

1.

Stay well-hydrated. Drink six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day.

2.

Eat healthfully, adjusting the proportion of protein and carbohydrate to your brain needs.

3.

Think positive, healthy thoughts.

4.

Take time each day to focus on things you are grateful for in your life.

5.

Spend time with positive, uplifting people.

6.

Spend time with people you want to be like.

7.

Talk to others in loving, helpful ways.

8.

Surround yourself with great smells.

9.

Make a difference in the life of someone else.

10.

Exercise.

11.

Regularly connect with your loved ones.

12.

Learn diaphragmatic breathing.

13.

Learn and use self-hypnosis and meditation on a daily basis.

14.

Focus on what you like a lot more than what you dont like.

15.

Have meaning, purpose, excitement, and stimulation in your life.

16.

Establish eye contact with and smile frequently at others.

17.

Learn something new each day.

18.

Make beautiful music a part of your life.

Learning to think in opposites is another excellent way to strengthen brain function and erode
negative, repetitive subconscious thought patterns. When you notice ceaselessly repeating thought loops
dominating your thinking, stop the thought, breathe, and ask: What is the opposite of this thought?

This disrupts the subconscious program, erodes it, equips you with new options, and changes your
perceptions
-a
polite
way
of
talking
back
to
your
subconscious.

Combine Visualizations and Thoughts with Epigenetic Mechanisms -

Visualizing, imagining, and pretending are powerful thought tools. The brain produces the
neurochemistry and bioelectricity the body needs to accomplish any action that we visualize, imagine, or
pretend. Trained athletes are taught to do this, and we can use the same principle in combination with
epigenetics
to
enhance
brain-to-cell
communications.
The brain communicates with cells through the pituitary gland, but communications begin with the
hypothalamus, and then the pineal gland. Doing the next exercise can improve body-mind wellness by
strengthening
the
hypothalamus
and
the
pineal
and
pituitary
glands:
1.

Place an index finger at the top of your nose. The pituitary gland is located behind this area
and sits like saddlebags on the Turkish Saddle -- a bone at the base of the skull. The anterior side (front)
comes up from the back of the mouth and grows up into the brain; the posterior side (back) protrudes
down from the hypothalamus in the brain. The pineal gland is located in the center of the brain, behind
the third eye of Eastern religions. Perceive with your fingertip and develop an intuitive sense for these
glands
locations.

1.

Pretend your finger is a straw and that a tiny soap bubble, with all of the vibrations of the
color spectrum, is forming at the tip of the straw, under your finger. Visualize the bubble enlarging
slightly as you inhale and your hypothalamus and the pineal and pituitary glands draw energy through
the
straw.

1.

Visualize the multi-colored bubble enlarging and moving inward until it is large enough to
encompass the hypothalamus, and the pineal and pituitary glands. Breathe abdominally.

1.

Focus on your image of the multi-colored bubble encasing the hypothalamus and the pineal
and pituitary glands; and then, develop a deeper sense for their locations and conditions. Notice lights,
colors,
or
other
perceptions.

1.

Visualize the hypothalamus and the pineal and pituitary glands becoming plump, youthful, and
healthy and developing unobstructed chemical and electrical connections with every part of your body.

1.

Select an age or an image of yourself when you were healthy, happy, and pleased with your
physical appearance -- when your hypothalamus and your pineal and pituitary glands were youthful and
effortlessly produced and released the many hormones that influenced your bodily systems positively.
(As people age, the hypothalamus and the pineal and pituitary glands shrivel and begin to look more like
raisins than plump grapes or plums). Instruct the hypothalamus and the pineal and pituitary glands to
replicate the hormones and other chemical compositions they produced during the earlier time. Notice
positive,
feel-good
sensations
flooding
your
body-mind.

1.

Thank your hypothalamus and your pineal and pituitary glands for producing hormones,
neurochemicals, and communications necessary for relaxing DNA strands and creating positive cellular
responses. Pause and notice all of your new, positive perceptions of your inner and outer environments.

Combine Body-mind Communication with Epigenetic Mechanisms to Regenerate Perfect,

Harmonious
Cells
and
Strengthen
Your
Cell
Community
-

These thought tools can be used for preventive cellular maintenance and cellular healing. The
combined powers of visualization, positive thinking, and body-mind communications can create positive
perceptions by enhancing your energy connections and consciousness. The body is constantly
regenerating itself. All of the cells of the liver are replaced every six weeks, for example; and at least 98
percent of the total body cells are replaced every two years. Without corrective intervention, however,
the
body
regenerates
itself
by
established
systemic
programs.

The following suggestions may inspire creation of your own unique body-mind communications and
visualizations, which you can do while meditating, walking, exercising, preparing for sleep, awakening,
etc.:

1.

Simply say in your mind or aloud: Every cell in my body is regenerating perfect new cells in
harmony with all other cells. Repeat this statement while scanning your body from head to toe and
fingertip. Visualize yourself as youthful, happy, healthy, and doing something you enjoy, or will be
doing
when
you
are
well.
Notice
how
your
perceptions
change.

1.

Focus on specific bodily systems; and say, for example: The cells of every bone in my
skeletal structure are regenerating perfect new cells in harmony with all other cells. Every bone is
gaining strength and density. While repeating the statement, place your awareness on the skull bones
and then visualize every bone, from head to toe and fingertip. Spend extra time on injured or known
low-density areas. Create similar scripts for specific muscles, arteries, organs, or the skin. The power
of this visualization can be compounded by combining it with thoughts or images of balance or self-

love.

1.

During longer meditation or thought periods, take a virtual tour of your inner body and
communicate with all major systems and organs -- learn to see your interior self. Instruct each system or
organ to regenerate only perfect cells and to charge unhealthy cells with healing chemistry and
electricity. If necessary, instruct the body to discharge unhealthy cells into its wastes-elimination
systems. A review of basic anatomy might be helpful. Place internal smiles throughout the body as a
way of strengthening specific areas and the entire cell community. Notice how a smile energizes an
area.

Epigenetic communication and visualization may have many positive effects on the body-mind,
including:

Relaxing DNA strands

Taking control of your genes and reshaping your biology and behavior
Stimulating brain connectors and neural pathways
Producing and delivering more feel-good neurochemistry
Removing incoherence (chaos) from bioelectrical fields and improving resonance
Increasing cerebral blood and energy flows and nourishing injured or deficient body areas
Cleansing the body of toxic wastes
Reframing habitual unhealthy thought patterns and eliminating continuous-loop thoughts
Applying consciousness and assuming responsibility for your interior biological appearance
Learning to love, honor, and accept yourself
Changing unhealthy perceptions and creating harmonic environmental, body-mind, and spirit
connections

You are the only person who can perceive your outer environment through your applied consciousness,
and only your cell community reads your inner environment and constantly adjusts your biology. Your
body-mind already knows how to apply epigenetic mechanisms to create the positive effects listed
above, and more. Changing your perceptions, and resulting cell responses, is one way to live your life
with
mindfulness
and
to
achieve
wellness
and
well-being.

__________
1. Bruce H. Lipton, Embracing the Immaterial Universe, Shift: At The Frontiers of Consciousness,
No.
9,
p.
12,
December
2005--February
2006.
1

2.Daniel G. Amen, Change Your Brain, Change Your Life, Three Rivers Press, New York, New York,
1998, pp. 301-303. ISBN: 0-8129-2998-5.