A weekly newsletter with science-based insights on creativity, mindful productivity, better thinking and lifelong learning.
Ness Labs: Thinking Beyond the Brain 🧠
Edition #175 – Jan 26th, 2022
Thinking Beyond the Brain
Not a week goes by without seeing the word "neuroplasticity" pop up in an article in mainstream media or on a landing page of a new product supposedly designed to help you unlock your hidden potential.
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain's ability to rewire itself. The term has become so prevalent, it makes you wonder: is neuroplasticity the key to everything, from learning to behavior change and treating addictions or depression?
Unfortunately, the answer is far from a resounding yes.
While neuroplasticity is a fascinating phenomenon, a lot can be — and should be — explained using a different frame of reference.
This week, we'll go back to the basics of what neuroplasticity really is, what it isn't, and how you can critically appraise content that uses the term to support its arguments.
We'll also explore the emerging science of self-compassion in an essay by Dr Rose, and you'll discover an amazing open source tool for thought with a strong commitment to privacy and security.
Enjoy your weekly dose of mindful productivity!
Anne-Laure.
🧠 Brain Food
Thinking Beyond the Brain: Why Neuroplasticity is Overhyped (6 min)
Written by Anne-Laure Le Cunff
Lists of exercises to rewire your brain, books about the “plastic” brain… Neuroplasticity has been touted as a magical capability anyone can harness for success. But where does the boundary lie between neuroscience and neurobabble?
The Science of Self-Compassion (6 min)
Written by Dr Hannah Rose
While we try our best to be supportive of our loved ones, we are often too harsh with ourselves, turning blame inwards and replaying the mistakes we have made on a loop. Self-compassion is an emergent area of research with the potential to help us develop a kinder approach to work and life.
Free your notes with Joplin (10 min)
Interview with Laurent Cozic
There are many note-taking apps but not many are open source. In this interview, we talked about why open source matters for note-taking, the benefits of offline-first note taking, committing to privacy and security, and much more.
🍬 Brain Candy
Little nuggets from my Twitter bookmarks this week. Click on the card to read the full tweet and see any videos/images.
🤝 Brain Trust
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🌊 Brain Waves
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Until next week, take care!
Ness Labs by Anne-Laure Le Cunff
A weekly newsletter with science-based insights on creativity, mindful productivity, better thinking and lifelong learning.
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