Dreams are like your brain’s secret cinema, blending memories, emotions and creativity into surreal stories. Some scientists say they’re a “memory cleanup crew,” others see them as an “emotional sandbox,” while the Activation-Synthesis Theory calls them pure chaos turned into a nightly blockbuster. Explore the fascinating neuroscience behind why we dream!

Pay attention aka the Science of Mindlessness and Mindfulness by Ellen Langer who’s unconventional studies have long suggested what neuroscience is now revealing: Our experiences are formed by the words and ideas we attach to them and mindfulness can be achieved by the simple act of noticing.

Let me tell you a story about… stress. Unlike the dark fairy tales of the Grimm brothers, which originate from folklore, this one is straight from the lab. I first heard it from my university professor and an incredibly inspiring TED speaker, Ms Ewa Hartman, during one of her lectures. To me, it perfectly illustrates the works of our brain and how stress can kill play.

The SCARF model provides a valuable framework for understanding the psychological factors that influence communication. By focusing on Status, Certainty, Autonomy, Relatedness, and Fairness, you can create more effective and meaningful interactions. Implementing these principles can lead to improved relationships, reduced conflict, and a more positive and productive environment in both personal and professional settings. Embrace the SCARF model to enhance your communication skills and foster better connections with those around you.

Gratitude is contagious! When you express appreciation, you encourage others to do the same. It’s a ripple effect that spreads positivity, boosts relationships and makes everyone’s brains a little bit happier. The more you practice gratitude, the more you help create a world where others feel encouraged to be thankful too.

Safety, connection and problem-solving. The brain state model categorizes human brain function into three primary states and helps explain how different parts of the brain dominate our behavior and decision-making processes in varying contexts.

The neuroscience of Blue Zones underscores the profound connection between lifestyle and brain health. The integration of physical activity, a nutrient-dense diet, strong social networks, purposeful living, effective stress management and restorative sleep provides a model for achieving cognitive longevity and overall well-being. These insights offer valuable lessons for individuals and societies aiming to promote brain health and improve quality of life.