Everyday Neuro: Psychology and Neuroscience Podcast

In this episode, dedicated to the pioneering researcher Professor Eleanor Maguire, I talk about how the hippocampus acts like a time machine, to help us remember events and special moments in our past, navigate the present and travel into the future. I talk about Maguire’s groundbreaking London Taxi Driver study and how it has changed our understanding of memory, spatial navigation and scene construction. Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Part 2 of this episode, I talk about the effects of digital media on younger people and how bans on social media use may be more harmful than beneficial. This notion is explored further with expert Dr Milovan Savic who discusses the relationship between digital media and loneliness, social connection, and his evidence based research about empowering younger people to make informed choices about social media use.  This is Part 2 of a 2 part episode. Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Part 1 of this episode I talk about social connection and the effects of digital media. I also investigate social isolation and loneliness and the effects they have on our cognitive, emotional and physical wellbeing. This is Part 1 of a 2 part episode. Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I talk about how engaging the thoughts and ideas of younger people in social decision making through “transcendent thinking”, the practice of looking beyond the immediate situation to understand deeper meanings and implications, can influence brain development and potentially enhance identity formation and self-liking in our future change makers.   Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I talk about Behavioural Activation Therapy and how actions can boost your mental health. I also discuss social prescribing and the approach that promotes activities alongside traditional healthcare. I am joined by guest Nicole R. Smith who provides wonderful insight into the benefits of volunteering and how this can can boost your mental and physical health.For more information about Nicole, please go to nicolersmith.net or @nicolersmith.net on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.You can support Everyday Neuro and get ad-free and exclusive episodes at patreon.com/everydayneuro Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Michelle Ni Raghallaigh, an NHS-trained insomnia specialist and cognitive neuroscientist, joins the host to unveil sleep myths. They discuss the significance of sleep for physical and emotional well-being, the different types of insomnia, and how cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTI) is an effective treatment. The chapter also covers the benefits of CBTI for sleep-related issues and provides information on accessing further support and courses.

Exploring PTSD and its impact, recognizing and supporting individuals with PTSD, strategies for providing assistance, importance of self-care for caregivers, seeking support from friends and professionals.

In Part 1 of this episode, I discuss the topic of nature and how it can enhance our wellbeing, feelings of safety and security and ultimately our health and productivity. In Part 1, I am joined by interior designer Tara Cantwell of Cantwell Interiors (https://www.cantwellinteriors.com), who provides rich insight into how we can bring nature into our homes and workspaces. Part 2 is a bonus exclusive episode that further explores how taking a walk in nature can relax our fight and flight system, lowering stress and promoting productivity thanks to a reduction in activity in the region of the brain called the amygdala. Part 2 is available to members of Everyday Neuro Acast+ and Patreon. See the website for more details at everydayneuro.com.au/podcasts. Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Tessa Hughes, an experienced mindfulness practitioner, discusses the benefits of relaxation, breathwork, and meditation in reducing tension and anxiety. They explore research studies on the positive effects of diaphragmatic breathing and mindful movement. The importance of finding time for oneself to relax and its various benefits on overall well-being are emphasized.

In Episode 16, I discuss advances in research and technology that are attempting to provide new information to improve the safety of playing high impact adult and youth sports. I talk with Damien Hawes about an innovative mouthguard developed by HITIQ that aims to provide an incredible surveillance system that has the potential to further our understanding of the effects of high level impacts during sport on our brain health and cognition. I also talk about the role neuropsychologists play in a world of virtual reality and cutting edge technology. Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.