The most brain-friendly book discussion continued today. [Read more…] about Transcript: Q&A on Social interactions and the Brain
social-interactions
More Friends, Bigger Brain
Editor’s Note: We are pleased to bring you this article by Sian Beilock, thanks to our collaboration with the Greater Good Magazine. (Pic by Leigh Wells)
Ever wonder why some people have more friends than others? Why some run in large and complex social circles while others have a small group of acquaintances? There are no doubt a variety of factors that influence the extent of our social networks. New research shows, however, that one factor we may not have considered before is right inside our head.
In a paper published recently in Nature Neuroscience, researchers showed that the number of friends we have could be predicted by the size of our amygdala—a small, almond-shaped region located deep inside our brains. [Read more…] about More Friends, Bigger Brain
Why Maintaining Stimulating Relationships is Good for You

(Photo: Tatiana Gladskikh)
.Why Other People’s Good News Could Be Good for You
How often does this happen to you: You come home ecstatic about some great news—a job promotion, a victorious tennis match, or maybe just the latest Ben and Jerry’s ice cream flavor—and you immediately relate the experience [Read more…] about Why Maintaining Stimulating Relationships is Good for You
Yes, It is Smart to Learn New Tricks
Good article in the Washington Post today:ÂÂ
Is It Really Smart to Teach Old Brains New Tricks?
The reporter presents a good overview of what is happening, but framed around a highly artificial choice for consumers: either you a) do physical exercise, or b) take part in social interactions, or c) engage in mental exercise.
What about switching off those TVs and having time for all a, b, c, and more? Research does not support a “general solution” to cognitive health but a multi-pronged one, featuring a good nutrition, stress management, and both physical and mental exercise. Each individual presents different contexts and priorities: for example, [Read more…] about Yes, It is Smart to Learn New Tricks