Author: This Is Your Brain producer
ASMR, or the autonomous sensory meridian response, is a state of deep calm accompanied by a sense of “brain tingles.” Not everyone experiences it, but if you do, you know what triggers it: a whisper or other soft sounds, a gentle touch or movement, even watching a Bob Ross video. Physiologist Craig Richard explains the science behind ASMR, and why in some people induces a deeply relaxing response that can resolve insomnia, relaxation, and stress. Plus: Who are the top “artists” of ASMR? Phil Stieg: Hello. I’d like to welcome Professor Craig Richard, founder of ASMR University. ASMR is Autonomous…
It’s effective against depression, can help you stop smoking, even ease end-of-life distress. It’s non-addictive, naturally occurring, and has been used for thousands of years — but you can’t have it. It’s psilocybin, the compound that creates the “magic” in dozens of species of mushrooms. Johns Hopkins researcher Albert Garcia-Romeu, Ph.D. knows just how magical it is. He’s conducting research on psilocybin’s therapeutic value for everything from persistent Lyme disease to a range of mental health conditions. Find out what this psychedelic drug can do, and why it got such a bad reputation. Plus… revisiting Timothy Leary’s rise and fall as…
We all know exercising is good for us – it reduces anxiety and inflammation, boosts the immune system, and may even ward off dementia, all while it helps keep us fit. But our brains don’t want us to do it! Meet Dr. Jennifer Heisz, a neuroscientist who learned how overcome the brain’s resistance and used exercise to conquer depression – and complete a triathlon! Plus… why those who fear exercise the most have the most to gain from it. Phil Stieg: Hello. I’d like to welcome Professor Jennifer Heisz, award-winning neuroscientist from McMaster University in Hamilton Ontario, and an evangelist…
Brain science is everywhere, even in the stories we tell. Hear from neuroscientists and storytelling experts Paula Croxson and Uri Hasson about how the brain processes stories, how a listener’s mind resonates with the storyteller’s, and why some stories have the power to transport you to a different place. Plus… If facts can’t change someone’s mind, can stories? Phil Stieg: Hello! In today’s episode we’ll meet two guests who are going to help us explore the science of storytelling — and storytelling about science. First, is Dr. Paula Croxson. Dr. Croxson is the Director of Public Programs at The Zuckerman…
Dr. Tony Nader, an academic, author, and the leader of the Transcendental Meditation movement, knows how you can find inner peace. TM is like a deep dive to the stillness at the bottom of the ocean, leaving the turbulent waves far above. Learn how the body and mind are inextricably bound, and how meditation can improve mental and physical health. Plus… what the Beatles taught us about meditation.Phil Stieg: Hello, and welcome to Dr. Tony Nader, head of the Transcendental Meditation Organization, globally and successor to the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. How can we explain the brain body interaction? What can we…
Where in the brain is that little something that makes top performers feel so confident in their ability? Can that confidence be developed in someone who is naturally more timid? Dr. Nate Zinsser, director of West Point’s Performance Psychology Program and author of The Confident Mind, explains how a sense of mastery develops, and why butterflies in your stomach are a signal from the brain when you’re about to do something great. Plus… why Ted Lasso wants us all to be a little more like goldfish. Phil Stieg: Hello, and welcome to Dr. Nate Zinsser, director of performance psychology for the…