Irritable Bowel Syndrome Pt.2: Mental Health and IBS: Promising Psychological Treatment Options
Now we’ve got an understanding of some of the key brain-based elements of irritable bowel syndrome, we’re going to unpick some of them in more detail. Last time, we touched on how stress can be a significant contributing factor to many common IBS symptoms. Today, we’re going to look deeper into the intricate connection between mental health and this complex gastrointestinal condition. We’ll also discuss some proven effective psychological interventions that can help address it.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome Pt.1: Exploring the connection between IBS and the brain
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions of people across the world. Traditional treatments for the uncomfortable symptoms it presents have often focused on a diet-based approach. However, increasing amounts of research reveal that the gut-brain axis plays an important part in the disorder. In the next few posts, we’ll be looking into the brain-IBS link, talking about the microbiome, and delving deep into how stress and emotions play their part.
Omega-6 Fatty Acids: The Other Essential Brain Fat
We’ve all heard about the brilliant benefits of getting enough omega-3 fatty acids in our diet, but omega-6 fatty acids don’t get as much coverage, and have even suffered negative press in the past. Why is that? Well, today we’re going to uncover the facts and balance the narrative on essential fats, shedding light on the true effects of omega-6s on our brain health.
Choline: The Underappreciated Brain Nutrient
Although it’s less frequently discussed than some of the more well-known vitamins and minerals, choline is an essential nutrient that profoundly affects our brains throughout our lives. That’s why in the next couple of posts, we’re looking at how exactly it affects the brain, all the way from early cognitive development to neuroprotection as we age.
The memory-boosting nostalgia of country and folk music
In our final installment in this music and the brain series, we’re finding out about the multi-faceted effects of folk and country tunes on our cognitive health. Notably, we’ll be zoning in on how the long-standing cultural and storytelling aspects of the genre help to connect people through the ages, stimulating memory, empathy, and self-expression.
Cause for Celebration: Why it’s Good for Us
Forms of celebration are present in almost every human society and culture across the globe. They are a way to mark significant events, milestones, and achievements, creating moments of joy and togetherness. But what does science say about celebration? Today, we’re here to talk about all the incredible benefits of celebration, its impact on our brains, and why we should do it more!
The Importance of EI: Exploring Emotional Intelligence
Our ability to notice, understand, and process emotions effectively plays a crucial role in maintaining our brain health, relationships, and mental well-being. EI, or emotional intelligence varies from person to person, with some studies suggesting that those with higher levels of EI enjoy a whole host of brain-boosting benefits. Let’s delve in.
The Yerkes-Dodson Law Pt. 2: How to Find Balance in Your Life
Last time, we discussed what the Yerkes-Dodson Law is and how it relates to the brain. Today, we’ll be looking at the implications of low and high arousal levels and detailing how you can utilize the law within your life to achieve the ideal balance for a healthy, happy brain.
The Color Series Part 2: The Emotional Effects of Color
In our last post, we learned how the brain processes colors and how they impact our cognitive performance and physical body. And today, we’ll be talking about how the variety of colors affect our moods, and more deeply, our mental health. We’ll also be exploring the functional uses of certain colors in real-life settings, so let’s get into it.
The Color Series Part 1: The Physiological Effects of Color
Ever wondered how colors are processed by the brain, and indeed, how they affect the brain and the physical body? In today’s blog, we investigate what’s happening within the brain when we perceive color and explore what impact individual colors have on both our brain function and cognitive abilities.
The Importance of Empathy for Mental Health
Did you know that promoting empathy within both individuals and communities can result in better mental health outcomes? Last time, we dived into the intricate workings of the neural circuits and brain regions that make up our capacity for compassion. Today, we’re touching on just how fundamental empathy is when it comes to good mental health and a happier society.
Understanding Where Empathy Comes from in the Brain
When we see others suffering, whether it be on a small or large scale, it can sometimes feel like it’s happening to us. Some of us might even define colloquially ourselves as “empaths”. But what does it mean? And where does it come from?
Well, empathy is a complex aspect of human psychology that is underpinned by intricate brain mechanisms. In the next couple of posts, we’ll be breaking down the neurological basis of empathy into bitesize chunks.
Help Others to Help Yourself
Not only is volunteering a great way to help out and grow your social connections, but it’s also fantastic for the health of your brain. In this week’s blog post, we’ll reveal how altruistic behaviors can positively impact mental health, cognitive function, and foster greater neurological resilience over time.
The Science of Scent Part 2: Aromatherapy and Cognitive Function
Last time, we discussed how the healing power of aromatherapy can benefit our psychological health, helping us to feel better, sleep better, and stress less. But there’s more! Various therapeutic plant-derived essential oils can also positively impact our memory function and our overall cognitive health. So, let’s find out more.
Harnessing Plant Power for Mental Well-being
Today’s blog post is a scientific exploration into the wonderful world of aromatherapy. We’ll be looking into how one of your key five senses, scent, can be used to enhance your moods, reduce your anxiety levels, and provide a welcome relief from the day-to-day stressors of modern life.
VR Therapy: A New Frontier in Mental Health Treatment
Last week we spoke about the exciting potential virtual reality technology has to transform our cognitive abilities and help the brain rebuild from a range of neurological injuries and disorders. Today, we’re taking it a step further and revealing just how broad the application of VR can go in treating an array of mental health conditions.
VR: A Unique Approach to Training and Rehabilitating the Brain
We might think about VR initially in terms of a fun, novel gaming experience, but the potential of this emerging technology is so much greater than pure recreational enjoyment. Increasingly, VR is being seen as a transformative tool with a whole host of potential applications when it comes to our health.
Today, we’re diving headfirst into what we know so far about how virtual reality can improve our brain health, cognitive abilities, and aid recovery from a range of complex neurological conditions.
Uncovering the Complex Connection Between Allergies and Brain Health
If you’ve ever experienced an allergic reaction, you’ll know it’s not a pleasant experience. They occur due to an immune system response to a whole range of substances in our environment. This blog post explores the surprising link between allergies and cognitive function and discusses the implications of that connection on our brain health.
The Hidden Healing Power of Journaling
Amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life in the modern era, we embark upon a wealth of experiences and face numerous challenges that lead to a wide range of emotional states. Processing these thoughts and encounters in a healthy way is key to maintaining optimal brain health and mental wellness. One way we can do this is by recording our thoughts textually. And that’s why today, we’re looking into the therapeutic powers of journaling.
The Power of Art: How Art Therapy Promotes Better Brain Health
Last time we spoke about how the brain responds to creating and viewing art. We learned about the complex cognitive processes involved in engaging with the creative process, and touched on how it can promote better emotional well-being. Today, we’re going to dive deeper into how art as therapy can have a profound impact on the brain and on individuals facing a range of mental and emotional challenges.