Why self-awareness? “I think, therefore I am,” said Descartes. Here are some questions: Who are we? Why are we here? What is the purpose of our lives? How many people are self-aware? What does being self-aware translate to? The two connections to our mind and body are: 1. Metacognition – being aware of our thoughts and […]
Did you know that lifestyle factors have an impact on major diseases? Studies show that Lifestyle is the most powerful tool in preventing chronic diseases. Lifestyle factors, primarily not smoking, maintaining a healthy body weight (BMI 18.5–25), regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week), healthy diet (e.g., Mediterranean-style, rich in […]
Below is a practical, evidence-based 90-day plan for a 34-year-old man who needs to lose 40 pounds. He can lose ~1–2 lbs/week (aiming for 12–24 lbs total, or ~30–40% of the excess) safely and sustainably. The plan focuses on whole foods, movement, sleep, and behavior change—no fad diets or pills. All recommendations are backed by […]
Once we are aware of the damage obesity produces in our bodies, we should feel motivated to take action and make changes in our nutrition and lifestyle. HEALTH CONSEQUENCES OF OBESITY “Obesity is associated with increased overall mortality and is a significant risk factor for developing numerous comorbidities. 31,169–172 Obesity is associated with increased risk […]
Obesity: The Disease of Industrial Eating How convenience rewired our bodies—and how whole foods can rewire them back. The Post-War Pivot After World War II, the machinery of mass production didn’t shut down—it pivoted to the supermarket. Factories that canned beans for soldiers now filled shelves with TV dinners. White flour, once a labor-intensive delicacy, […]
Below is a comprehensive, evidence-based overview of the neurological and endocrine effects of meditation (mindfulness, focused attention, loving-kindness, transcendental, etc.). Effects are dose-dependent (stronger with daily practice ≥20 min, long-term ≥8 weeks). Data come from fMRI, EEG, salivary/blood assays, and longitudinal RCTs. Neurological Effects of Meditation Neuroplasticity & Brain Structure ↑ Gray matter in the […]
Playing instrumental music has important neurological and endocrine effects. In certain countries, playing an instrument is obligatory in schools. Below is a comprehensive, evidence-based overview of the neurological and endocrine effects of playing instrumental music (e.g., piano, violin, drums, guitar). Effects are strongest in trained musicians and those with active performance experience, but even amateur […]
Below is a head-to-head comparison of singing vs. dancing on neurological and endocrine systems. Effects are grouped by mechanism, magnitude, context (solo vs. group), and evidence strength. 1. Neurological Effects: Singing vs. Dancing Mechanism Singing Dancing Winner / Notes Neuroplasticity ↑ Gray matter in auditory cortex, arcuate fasciculus, hippocampus (Halwani 2011; Wan 2010) ↑ Hippocampal […]
Singing has powerful, measurable effects on both the neurological (brain and nervous system) and endocrine (hormone) systems. These effects span motor control, emotional regulation, stress reduction, and social bonding—often amplified when singing in groups (e.g., choirs). Below is a structured breakdown supported by peer-reviewed research. Neurological Effects of Singing Motor & Respiratory Neural Control Primary […]
Dancing has profound effects on both the neurological (brain and nervous system) and endocrine (hormone) systems, supported by extensive research in neuroscience, psychology, and physiology. I always felt great when dancing and afterwards. Our ancestral traditions incorporated dancing as a ritual. Dancing is disappearing. Similarly, singing has the same kind of effect, and people are […]