Hi Friends,

A recent topic of discussion in Fajardo-Land: perception versus perspective, with the latter being the foundation of one of my favorite books, The Noticer, by Andy Andrews (link for convenience only).

Perception is the process by which we become aware of and interpret sensory information, creating a basis of understanding of our environment and experiences. It encompasses sensory input, neural transmission, cortical processing, integration, and interpretation. This means your brain is constantly predicting, filtering, and adjusting what you perceive—like a live editor shaping your experience in real time.

A sympathetic brain takes in less sensory information, leaving "gaps" in the story happening around us. To make sense of it, the brain fills in these gaps, often by comparing this moment to past moments, creating a narrative that feels real but isn't entirely accurate. This narrative becomes the lens through which we see and understand the world.

Perspective is a way of thinking about something, shaped by experience, culture, emotion, or context. Perspective can shift with time, insight, or movement—physically, emotionally, or cognitively. It’s not fixed; it’s fluid, like fascia responding to mechanical pressure.

In sympathetic dominance, instead of aligning with my current environment, I rely on reflexes. It's very black-and-white, lacking the nuances of the parasympathetic state. Even if I have the mental capacity to consider another perspective, it's constrained by the rigid black-and-white nature of my available options. Yet I believe I do have perspective, and the ability and openness to see a perspective other than my own.

It’s like comparing a photo of a sunset to standing in its glow. You assume they’re the same—but you truly have no idea what you’re missing.

Perception is immediate. My knee hurts.

Perspective is reflective. My knee joint space is increasing, of course I have feedback. My brain map needs to update.

Your perception of a moment can reinforce or reshape your perspective. Perception is the raw data; perspective is the story you tell about it.

What if your perspective is based on perception that feels real but isn't entirely accurate?

Onwards, Amy

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Content is this email is for entertainment and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or a replacement for therapy. This is, unapologetically, Amy’s soapbox. If something here struck a nerve, chances are you helped spark it—so own your part. The musings won’t last forever, but while they do, consider them an invitation to reflect, laugh, or squirm a little.