Summary: Experienced meditators can voluntarily induce unconscious states, known as cessations, without the use of drugs. This ability, observed in Tibetan Buddhist practice, allows meditators to experience a momentary void…
Category: brain research
Beer Goggles Myth Busted: Alcohol Doesn’t Alter Attraction
Summary: Researchers have debunked the “beer goggles” myth, suggesting that alcohol doesn’t necessarily make people appear more attractive due to facial symmetry. In their study, participants, including intoxicated individuals, rated…
Gen Z’s Mind Maze: Navigating a World of Perceived Extremes
Summary: A new study delves into the mental health crisis among Gen Z. The study, based on 40 interviews, highlights key risk factors like mass shootings, social media, and climate…
Cat Ownership Linked to Increased Schizophrenia Risk
Summary: Researchers systematically reviewed and meta-analyzed research from 1980 to 2023 to investigate the relationship between cat ownership and schizophrenia-related disorders. Out of 1915 studies initially identified, 17 were included…
Optimism Linked to Poor Decision-Making and Lower Cognitive Skills
Summary: While optimism is often celebrated, a new study reveals that excessive optimism can lead to poor decision-making, particularly in financial matters. The research shows that individuals with high cognitive…
Heartbeat’s Influence on Brain Activity
Summary: New research uncovered that the phases of a heartbeat significantly influence brain and motor system excitability. The study utilized transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) on 37 healthy volunteers to observe…
Placebo Power: Patient Belief in Treatment Impacts Depression Therapy Effectiveness
Summary: A new study sheds light on the significant role of patients’ beliefs in the effectiveness of neurostimulation treatments for conditions like depression and ADHD. Analyzing five studies, the research…
Internet Usage and Mental Health
Summary: A comprehensive study analyzing data from two million individuals across 168 countries, challenges the widely held belief about the negative psychological impact of internet technologies. Researchers found only small…
