Are You Readyyyyyyyyyyyy?

Its almost time for the Rangers to bring their gear into the locker room at the Garden and get this season started! Steve Zipay from Newsday, the Islanders rag, apparently has an inside ear and posted the lines for the first two preseason games on his blog, Blue Notes.

Without futher delay:
Against the Devils (no Gomez, no surprise but swapping Drury for Anisimov is a lil strange):
Avery-Anisimov-Shanahan
Straka-Dubinsky-Callahan
Hollweg-Betts-Lessard
Byers-Smith-Jessiman

Defense:
Tyutin-Girardi
Strudwick-Sauer
Kasparaitis-Hutchinson

Goal: Valiquette, Montoya

This second group, plus at least one player from above, will play against Philadelphia on Saturday night.

Dawes-Gomez-Jagr
Hossa-Drury-Prucha
Korpikoski-Pyatt-Orr

Defense:
Baranka-Mara
Malik-Sanguinetti
Staal-Rozsival
Pock-Liffiton

Goal: Lundqvist, Wiikman

>>>EDIT: New York Rangers President and General Manager Glen Sather announced today that the club has reassigned forward Tom Pyatt to Hartford (AHL) and defenseman Bobby Sanguinetti to Brampton (OHL). No surprrise in these moves although I would have thought that he would have let them play in at least one preseason game. But Sather is a bastard like that so maybe not. Guess Zipay was wrong (a reporter for Newsday getting something wrong? nooooooo).

More info and analysis to come, stay tuned!!!

 "Are You Readyyyyyyyyyyyy? The Power of Anticipation and Its Impact on Human Behavior"

The sensation of anticipation is a powerful and universal human experience. Whether it's the excitement leading up to a long-awaited event, the suspense before opening a gift, or the nervousness preceding an important decision, anticipation shapes our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. In this article, we delve into the fascinating world of anticipation, exploring its psychological and physiological effects, its role in decision-making, and the ways it enriches our lives. Additionally, we'll address frequently asked questions to help you gain a deeper understanding of this intriguing aspect of the human psyche.

Part I: The Nature of Anticipation

Defining Anticipation

Anticipation is the act of looking forward to or expecting something with eagerness or excitement. It often involves imagining and mentally preparing for future events.

The Universal Experience

Anticipation is a shared human experience, transcending cultures and generations. It can range from the mundane, like waiting for a favorite TV show, to the profound, such as anticipating the birth of a child.

Part II: The Psychology of Anticipation

Emotional Rollercoaster

Anticipation elicits a wide range of emotions. It can bring joy, anxiety, hope, or fear, depending on what is anticipated. These emotions play a crucial role in our psychological responses.

The Dopamine Connection

Dopamine, often referred to as the "feel-good" neurotransmitter, is closely linked to anticipation. The brain releases dopamine when we anticipate a rewarding experience, creating a sense of pleasure.

Part III: The Physiology of Anticipation

Fight-or-Flight Response

Anticipation triggers the body's fight-or-flight response, leading to increased heart rate, shallow breathing, and heightened alertness. This physiological reaction is a testament to anticipation's power.

The Role of Cortisol

While anticipation can trigger the release of dopamine, it can also elevate cortisol levels, leading to stress and anxiety. The interplay between these hormones influences our overall response.

Part IV: Anticipation in Decision-Making

Delay Discounting

Anticipation plays a significant role in decision-making, particularly in situations involving delayed gratification. The ability to resist immediate rewards for greater future benefits relies on our capacity to anticipate.

Risk and Uncertainty

Anticipation also influences our perception of risk and uncertainty. It can make us more willing to take risks in situations where the potential rewards are highly anticipated.

Part V: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Let's address some frequently asked questions about anticipation and its impact:

1. Why do we experience both positive and negative emotions during anticipation?

Anticipation can evoke a range of emotions because it is inherently linked to uncertainty. Positive emotions like excitement come from anticipating a desirable outcome, while negative emotions like anxiety stem from the uncertainty of that outcome.

2. Can anticipation be detrimental to one's well-being?

While anticipation can lead to stress and anxiety in some cases, it is generally considered a healthy and adaptive emotion. It motivates us, enhances our focus, and can lead to positive outcomes.

3. How can one manage anticipation-related anxiety?

Managing anticipation-related anxiety involves techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing, and positive visualization. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can also be effective in addressing anticipatory anxiety.

Anticipation is a fundamental aspect of the human experience, shaping our emotions, behaviors, and decisions. It serves as a powerful motivator, propelling us forward and enhancing our enjoyment of life's events, both big and small. While it can bring about a range of emotions, including stress and anxiety, its positive effects on motivation, reward, and decision-making cannot be underestimated. As we navigate the ups and downs of life, anticipation remains a constant companion, urging us to embrace the unknown, take calculated risks, and savor the delightful moments that make life rich and fulfilling. So, the next time you find yourself eagerly awaiting an event or opportunity, remember that anticipation is not just a fleeting feeling but a force that propels us toward a brighter future. Are you readyyyyyyyyyyyy?