Level: 1. Neural
Neural represents the concept of “inside,” the foundational perspective of brain function, emotions, and cognition. It is the living system of the Healthy Brain, focusing on cellular, cognitive, and emotional wellbeing. Neural is where openness begins, as it invites exploration of internal processes and their role in shaping perception and decision-making. Nested within larger systems, Neural perspectives provide insights into the personal and systemic effects of mental health and resilience, fostering adaptability and growth.
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Wonder Starts in the Body: How Awe Moves Us—Literally
You know that feeling when something stops you in your tracks? A rainbow after the rain, a whale breaching, a song that gives you chills. That’s wonder. And while it may feel like magic, scientists are discovering that wonder isn’t just in our minds—it begins in our bodies and nervous system (1). Our eyes widen.…
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Awe: How Mystic Moments Change the Brain and the Behaviour
We’ve all felt it—that tingling, breath-stealing sensation in the presence of something far greater than ourselves. A starlit sky. A cathedral’s hush. The cry of a newborn. These “mystic moments” leave us speechless—but they also change us. Science now shows that awe – a powerful, sometimes transcendent emotion – can quiet self-talk, sharpen attention, and…
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Myths about creativity
Creativity is a very mysterious thing for lots of people. Myths usually rely on a grain of truth that gets twisted and taken out of a wider context. There are a lot of misconceptions about creativity still floating freely all over the world, which suggests that the scientific research we know on this subject has…
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Why “Silly Words” Are Serious Business
Can nonsense words like “snizzlepop” actually build serious reading skills and brain power? You might think silly words are just for laughs—but research shows they’re essential tools for literacy, creativity, emotional connection, and brain development. From the mischievous “snickersnack” of the ‘Jabberwocky’ to phonics drills using words like “zeb”, “doth”, and “mig”, silly or nonsense…
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Bilingualism and Empathy in Childhood: How Language Builds Social Understanding
Could speaking more than one language lead to more empathetic, socially aware individuals? Empathy—the ability to understand and share another person’s thoughts and emotions—is a cornerstone of social and emotional development. Meanwhile, bilingualism is increasingly common in today’s globalised world, with more than half the world’s population estimated to be bilingual or multilingual. While much…
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The Neuroscience of Words: How Language Shapes the Brain
Have you ever wondered how simply hearing a word can trigger a memory, a feeling, or even a physical response? Language is often described as humanity’s most powerful tool, yet neuroscience reveals that it is much more than a means of communication—it is a formative force that sculpts our brains across development, cultures, and even…
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Babies’ speech relies on pitch and rhythm
Have you ever wondered how babies begin learning language before they even utter a word? Across all cultures, humans create both language and music — two universal systems built on rhythm and pitch. These shared features are essential building blocks for how babies begin to acquire language. This natural connection between language and music should…
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A Parent’s Guide to Selecting Books Your Children Will Love
Have you ever stood in a bookstore or library, staring at rows of colourful children’s books, wondering which one will actually engage your child? You’re not alone. With thousands of titles available, selecting the right book can feel overwhelming—but with a little guidance, choosing stories that captivate and support your child’s growth becomes joyful and…
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Dancing with Archetypes: Fairy Tales, Jung, and the Inner World of the Child
Do you remember the first story that truly moved you? Perhaps it was a dragon-guarded tower, a wise old owl, or a magical forest. Long before children can explain their feelings in words, they understand the world through stories and movement. Once upon a time, we all knew how to speak the language of symbols,…
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5 Ways to Make Friends as a Parent
Do you ever feel like making new friends as a parent feels harder than folding a fitted sheet one-handed? Making friends as an adult can be tough – and even tougher when you’re a couple juggling kids, work and never-ending laundry. Yet, strong friendships are very important for wellbeing, and research shows that social connections…
