Teaching in Higher Ed cover image

Teaching in Higher Ed

How to Keep Our Brains Sharp

Apr 24, 2025
Therese Huston, a cognitive neuroscientist and faculty development consultant, discusses practical strategies to enhance cognitive function. She highlights the surprising benefits of visualization in boosting productivity and the notable impact of just five minutes of meditation on memory recall. Huston also emphasizes the importance of focusing on the process over the outcome and shares how listening to emotionally resonant music can elevate dopamine levels. Her insights offer valuable tools for educators and anyone looking to keep their brains sharp.
44:42

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Multitasking significantly hinders productivity and increases mistakes, emphasizing the brain's limitations in handling simultaneous tasks effectively.
  • Engaging in practices like music that resonates emotionally and process-oriented visualization can enhance motivation and improve cognitive function.

Deep dives

Strategies for Cognitive Sharpness

Improving cognitive function involves implementing strategies based on neuroscience. Dr. Therese Houston shares practical techniques to enhance focus, memory, and overall mental sharpness. For instance, she emphasizes the importance of understanding how certain habits, like excessive digital distraction, can hinder productivity. By researching effective practices, she developed methods that not only improved her focus but also inspired her to share these insights with a broader audience.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
App store bannerPlay store banner