Brain retraining programs have gained significant attention as innovative approaches to addressing chronic conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome, anxiety, multiple chemical sensitivity, long COVID, and chronic pain. Among the most recognized programs are re-origin, developed by Ben Ahrens, and the Dynamic Neural Retraining System (DNRS), created by Annie Hopper. While both aim to harness the brain’s neuroplasticity for healing, they differ in focus, tools, and approach. This post explores these programs, compares their methods, and examines their roles in chronic illness recovery, helping you determine which approach best suits your unique healing journey.
If you’re looking for a flexible, holistic approach to help overcome your symptoms, learn more about the re-origin program and how it could support your healing journey.
What Is Retraining the Brain?
Brain retraining, also known as brain rewiring, involves using neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new neural pathways—to regulate the nervous system and reduce symptoms of various chronic health conditions. For people with chronic conditions, the brain often becomes stuck in a heightened stress response, perpetuating physical symptoms like pain, fatigue, sensitivities, and cognitive challenges. Brain rewiring aims to calm the limbic system, the brain region involved in stress, emotions, and survival instincts.
The Science Behind Brain Retraining
Studies show brain retraining can significantly improve chronic symptoms by calming the nervous system and creating new neural pathways.1 Participants in programs like re-origin and DNRS report improvements in symptoms of various chronic health conditions, demonstrating the effectiveness of these approaches.
What is the re-origin program?
The re-origin program, developed by Ben Ahrens, offers a practical, science-driven, and accessible method for brain retraining. Designed to calm the limbic system and rewire the brain’s response to symptoms, re-origin integrates modern neuroscience with easy-to-follow, guided practices. The program stands out for its flexible structure and strong community support, which includes expert-guided coaching sessions and ongoing engagement.2 Key aspects of the re-origin program include:
- Bite-sized videos and techniques designed to fit into every lifestyle.
- Integration of somatic and cognitive approaches for nervous system regulation.
- Add-on content that allows you to dive deeper into individualized concerns.
What Is DNRS Training?
The Dynamic Neural Retraining System (DNRS) is a structured program that teaches participants to rewire their limbic system through repetitive visualizations, affirmations, and behaviors. Developed by Annie Hopper, DNRS is also used to address symptoms of chronic health conditions.3 The program requires significant daily commitment and is structured around:
- Visualizations to replace negative associations with positive, calming ones.
- Repetition and practice to reinforce new neural pathways.
- Coaching and group support through DNRS-trained coaches.
Differences Between re-origin and DNRS
Program Structure
DNRS: A more rigid structure requiring a significant time investment (1+ hours daily).
re-origin: Flexible, shorter practices that can be incorporated into daily life (30 minutes daily-split into increments of your choosing).
Focus and Tools
DNRS: Primarily focused on limbic system retraining through visualization and repetition.
re-origin: A more holistic approach that includes somatic practices, brain-body integration, and nervous system regulation.
Community Support
DNRS: Offers community forums and DNRS-certified coaches.
re-origin: Provides live group coaching from re-origin certified coaches, free resources and follow-along videos, and an active, supportive community.
Approachability
DNRS: It can feel intensive for some participants, especially if you are new to brain retraining.
re-origin: Designed to be more accessible and practical for people managing chronic fatigue or cognitive challenges.
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Similarities Between re-origin and DNRS
Both programs share a commitment to:
- Target the limbic system to calm the stress response.
- Help people with chronic conditions like long COVID, fibromyalgia, and multiple chemical sensitivities.
- Encourage participants to take an active role in their healing process.
- Promote a drug-free, holistic approach to recovery.
Is re-origin or DNRS Right for You?
Choosing between re-origin and DNRS depends on your needs, lifestyle, and preferences:
- Choose DNRS if you prefer a structured approach with intensive daily practice.
- Choose re-origin if you value flexibility, modern tools, and a community-focused experience.
Both programs offer hope and tools for navigating the healing process.
Finding Hope in Brain Retraining
Brain retraining provides a path to self-healing, and it is vital that it is something you can integrate into your daily life. This makes your choice of brain retraining program extremely important- consider the factors discussed above when deciding which brain retraining program is the right fit for you. Read this related blog post on “7 Key Features of a Good Neuroplasticity Training Program” if you’d like to learn more. Or, if you’re ready to explore a flexible, science-based approach to overcoming symptoms, discover how the re-origin program can help you on your healing journey.
