What if the brain could be remoulded into how we like it to be? Far from a myth, it is very much possible, says Ms Watceilia Varso, founder of Practice Vision, a therapeutic and coaching space which includes psychotherapy clinics.
Her book, titled ‘The Brain’s Betrayal: Invisible Chains’, launched on July 27 at the National Library, synthesises the real, lived experiences of people in her life, into fictional characters and showcases both neuroplasticity and how mental constraints can be overcome.
While she had been writing the book for some time, the impetus to complete it came when she observed how people adapted to the Covid crisis, Ms Watceilia noted.
“This book is a conversation starter,” she said. “But the real transformation begins when we stop leading from our pain and start rewiring from purpose.”
Although Ms Watceilia has been based in Melbourne since 2019, where her company operates from, she owes her childhood and adult life to Singapore. As a human resources professional of 21 years, she forayed into psychology in 2012.
The book has also been launched in the US, UK and Australia.
Special guest for the book launch, former ambassador Kesavapany Krishnasamy, emphasised the importance of neuroplasticity in this age.
“60 years ago, we were a small island with no hope, no background. We have come far, but from here on, the journey is very difficult - there is competition worldwide. What will be the impact? So I’m looking forward to this book, to learn how our brain can adapt to these new conditions,” he said.
Proceeds from the book sales go equally to the Naval Base Kerala Library (NBKL) and Bhaskar’s Arts Academy, noted Ms Watceilia. Her journey with NBKL began as a child artiste, where she became its committee member, and then, an in-house choreographer. She also learnt dance from Bhaskar’s Arts Academy since young, performing both locally and globally. “These two institutions were why I understood that I could break barriers,” she said.
The book launch also featured a dance performance based on postpartum depression through the lens of Hindu mythology by Priya Nair from Bhaskar’s Arts Academy. Ms Watceilia also conducted a live NeuroRegenesis Masterclass, introducing participants to brain-based exercises.
The book launch, masterclass and dance were part of the event ‘Our Mind Matters’, which was organized by Naval Base Kerala Library to enhance awareness about mental health.
The book can be bought from https://amzn.asia/d/2lfuMV0
