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Your home serves as the backdrop to your life, encapsulating your past, present, and future moments. It's a space where we interact, engage, and are profoundly influenced by. Extensive research emphasizes the sacred nature of our homes, attributing more significance than we often acknowledge. Certain elements contribute to making our homes not only better spaces but also enhancing our own well-being within them. Each decision you make, from the aesthetics and layout of your home to the to-do ...
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This Is Your Brain With Dr. Phil Stieg provides a fascinating look into the human brain, with each episode asking new questions — and finding new answers — about our most mysterious organ. Together with his expert guests, Dr. Stieg takes us on a journey that reveals unexpected secrets at every turn, and redefines what we know about ourselves and our place in the world. The podcast explores the many fascinating aspects of neuroscience, ranging from how the brain is wired for both sudden burst ...
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Did you know that people who create art actually live longer? And the good news is you don't have to be good at! Painting, singing a song - even random doodling during a meeting - strengthens the neural pathways in your brain and increases overall physical health. In our next episode Dr. Stieg discusses the intriguing new field of Applied Neuroaest…
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Dr. Tony Nader, an academic, author, and the leader of the Transcendental Meditation movement, knows how you can find inner peace. TM is like a deep dive to the stillness at the bottom of the ocean, leaving the turbulent waves far above. Learn how the body and mind are inextricably bound, and how meditation can improve mental and physical health. P…
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Why are some people capable of creating music, art, books, or new technologies, seemingly out of thin air? Where do imagination and creativity live in the brain - and how can we tap them? Neuroscientist and author Anna Abraham reveals the three elements of creativity and explores the myths surrounding it, from its links to mental illness to the eff…
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Dolphins have large, complex brains that are a lot like the human model -- what if we could get inside their heads and communicate with them? Meet cognitive psychologist and marine mammal scientist Diana Reiss, PhD, who has been doing just that. Turns out our underwater friends have a lot going on in their brains, if only we could learn to decode i…
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Candace Pert discovered the opioid receptor, created a drug to stop AIDS in the brain, and identified stress as a cause of disease. She also inadvertently unleashed the overdose epidemic, got herself kicked out of the NIH, and was denied credit for much of her work. Pert was a trailblazing yet mercurial neuroscientist, a woman who made her male bos…
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ASMR, or the autonomous sensory meridian response, is a state of deep calm accompanied by a sense of “brain tingles.” Not everyone experiences it, but if you do, you know what triggers it: a whisper or other soft sounds, a gentle touch or movement, even watching a Bob Ross video. Physiologist Craig Richard explains the science behind ASMR, and why …
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We will never create true artificial intelligence (if we really want that) until we know more about how the human brain works. Tech entrepreneur and author Max Bennett explains how AI learns, where it falls short, and how it stacks up against our own intelligence. As it turns out, what's easy for humans is hard for AI, but AI is better at doing som…
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This episode focused on outdoor plazas, public spaces, and their impact on health and well-being. Drawing from personal experiences and professional insights, Nico explores the historical significance of public spaces, tracing back to ancient Greece and Rome, and their role as hubs of community life. Discussing the benefits of outdoor plazas, Nico …
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Language originates as brain signals -- mysterious lines of squiggles -- that somehow turn into speech. Meet the neuroscientist who is turning those squiggles into conversations, using artificial intelligence to translate brain activity into words and sentences. Dr. Edward Chang of UCSF talks with Dr. Stieg about the painstaking "magic" of decoding…
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We are programmed by evolution to be anxious - fear was a lifesaver for early humans! So are why are some 21st-century humans crippled by it? Catherine Pittman, PhD, chair of psychology at Saint Mary’s College in Notre Dame, is an expert on how different parts of the brain create and manage anxiety, and how to overcome it. Learn just how fast your …
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Welcome to "Outdoor Oasis: Creating Your Home in Nature," where we explore the art of transforming outdoor spaces into personal sanctuaries. As we approach the warmer months, join me in reimagining the way we live outdoors. From dining al fresco with loved ones to cozying up around a fire under the stars, we'll uncover the profound benefits of embr…
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Join host Nico as she delves into the theme of renewal that accompanies the arrival of spring. Discover how this season of change, growth, and new beginnings sparks a desire for improvement, cleanliness, and organization in our homes, mirroring our personal quest for renewal. With expert advice and practical strategies, this episode empowers you to…
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It's effective against depression, can help you stop smoking, even ease end-of-life distress. It's non-addictive, naturally occurring, and has been used for thousands of years -- but you can't have it. It's psilocybin, the compound that creates the "magic" in dozens of species of mushrooms. Johns Hopkins researcher Albert Garcia-Romeu, Ph.D. knows …
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Navigating Grief at Home Part 2 with Guest Natassia Valli: Designing for Healing: Creating a Nurturing Home Environment
44:31
Today we explore the transformative power of our living spaces during times of grief and loss. Join us as we delve into Natassia Valli's inspiring story of how her home became a sanctuary to navigate the grieving process after losing her husband. Discover how Natassia found solace and comfort by creating intentional spaces, embracing minimalism, an…
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Can't remember the fourth item on your grocery list? Nelson Dellis, a professional "memory athlete," can remember 100 things or more (though he still may forget the butter). Hear how Dellis learned to memorize lists so long that he became a five-time USA Memory Champion, and how you can use some of his strategies to improve your own memory. Dellis …
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In todays episode, Nico delves into the theme of grief and its connection to the home environment. The home is portrayed as a space for transformation, reflection, and self-expression. Nico discusses the importance of acknowledging and dealing with grief within the home setting, and offers strategies for managing grief at home. The episode emphasiz…
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Synesthesia is the mysterious mingling of the senses that creates the experience of "seeing" sounds or "hearing" colors. Neurologist Richard E. Cytowic, M.D. has spent his career exploring this remarkable phenomenon, and has some fascinating insight into how these sensations are formed in the brain -- and how we might use it to reunite our fracture…
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Most of us talk with our hands, some more than others, but what are we really saying? Susan Goldin-Meadow, PhD, professor of psychology and comparative human development at the University of Chicago, is an expert on gestures – what they mean, why they don't always agree with what words we are using, and even how they develop in blind children who h…
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Menopause can wreak havoc on mood and body temperature as it signals the end of fertility, but some of the biggest changes it causes are in the brain. Emily Jacobs, assistant professor in the department of psychological and brain sciences at UC Santa Barbara, explains how the precipitous decline in estrogen during the "change of life" disrupts the …
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Nico explores the significance of balance in interior design, and its impact on our well-being. Balance is defined as the visual weight and proportion of a room, and it can be achieved by carefully considering the placement and arrangement of furniture, objects, and colors. The benefits of balance in design are discussed, including the creation of …
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You know when you expeience awe, the moment captivates you and maybe even takes your breath away. Often these are some of the best moments we have. Being in the moment being present, time seems to stand still. Todays episode discusses the importance of incorporating elements of surprise and awe in our homes. Using our home as a tool to experience t…
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Is the deluge of digital media killing our ability to focus? Psychologist Gloria Mark, a professor in the Department of Informatics at University of California, Irvine, explains how we are shaped by what we pay attention to – and why today’s short snippets of everything are reinforcing short attention spans. Learn how playing a few minutes of Solit…
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In todays episode Nico emphasizes the crucial role of effective planning and goal setting in achieving successful home projects. Nico compares planning to a puzzle, where each piece of the project is carefully decided and organized in advance to ensure a positive outcome. Aligning the project with personal values and long-term goals is stressed, hi…
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Todays episode Nico discusses the importance of art in our homes and how it can impact our health and well-being. She emphasizes the significance of creative expression and how it can contribute to creating a home that reflects one's life and brings joy. Nico delves into the various ways in which art can have a positive impact on our well-being, in…
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Near-death experiences may seem like the stuff of supermarket tabloids, but there are real patterns to what people report after coming close to departing this life. Dr. Bruce Greyson has been studying near-death experiences for decades and has stories to tell about out-of-body phenomena, that light at the end of the tunnel, and a near-universal fin…
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Todays episode explores the topic of impulsivity and its impact on decision-making in our homes. Nico shares a cautionary tale about the regret that can come from impulsive decisions, emphasizing the importance of taking the time to make informed choices. She stresses the significance of considering all factors and options before making a decision,…
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The impact of mild traumatic brain injury extends far beyond the gridiron – concussions can happen anywhere, including playing fields, bike paths, and war zones. Kenneth Kutner, PhD, who specializes in head injuries and has been the team neuropsychologist for the New York Giants for 30 seasons, joins us to talk about what the latest research has re…
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Join me in this episode as we delve into the fascinating relationship between homes, kitchens, and health. Discover the importance of creating a functional kitchen that is tailored to your individual needs. We will explore key decisions in kitchen design, such as layout, appliance placement, and storage options. Additionally, we will discuss the im…
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Dogs and the humans who cherish them have a unique bond unlike any other. We wonder all too often, do our dogs love us as much as we love them? What are they really thinking? Are we projecting our own feelings onto these treasured family members in trying to understand them? In this "classic" episode first released in 2020, Emory University neuros…
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Are you suddenly craving change in your home? If that sounds like you, then listen up! Todays episode Nico chats about the desire for change in our homes and shares some guidance on how to effectively embrace and execute that change. Nico discusses the reasons why we crave sudden change, including the influence of springtime, personal wellbeing, tr…
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The Impact of Atmosphere in your spaces on Mood and Well-being : Designing Authentic and Intentional Atmospheres.
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The podcast episode explores the concept of atmosphere in interior design and its impact on our mood and well-being. Nico begins todays episode by sharing a personal anecdote about how music and the environment can inspire creativity and set a specific mood. Nico defines atmosphere as the mood and sensorial qualities of a space that guides our feel…
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In this classic episode recorded live at the Juilliard School in the fall of 2019 Dr. Stieg visits with world-renowned soprano Renée Fleming - a leading advocate for research and public education on the therapeutic power of music to heal the mind. Music’s psychological and neurological impact can help people suffering with dementia, Parkinson’s dis…
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Todays episode explores the concept of authenticity in interior design and how our access to a vast amount of design inspiration can hinder our ability to create authentic spaces. Nico emphasizes the importance of being aware of the drawbacks of collecting too much information and inspiration, as it can lead to decision-making difficulties and decr…
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What world do you live in? You may think your experience of life comes from the outside, with your brain processing sensory information as it's received. Anil Seth, professor of cognitive and computational neuroscience at the University of Sussex in England, takes a different view. Tune in as Dr. Seth explains how your brain is actually creating yo…
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Todays episode titled "Traditions, Memories, and Meaning: The Role of Christmas Deco in Our Lives" explores the various aspects of Christmas and holiday decor and how they can impact our health and wellbeing. Nico, expresses her excitement for the upcoming Christmas season and invites the listeners to join her in a discussion about Christmas decora…
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The brain and the heart are in constant communication, sending signals that control and respond to each other, so it’s no surprise that what’s good for one is what’s good for the other. Dr. Robert Harrington, an esteemed cardiologist and the new Dean of Weill Cornell Medicine, joins us today to explore the fascinating conversations that go on betwe…
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Creating A Healthy Happy Home Part 2: The Connection Between Home Organization, Cleanliness, and Overall Wellbeing.
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Todays episode discusses the importance of living in a healthy home for overall health and wellbeing. It emphasizes the need for a home that is aesthetically pleasing and reflects the individual's personal style. A healthy home prioritizes physical, mental, and emotional health and enhances the quality of life. The episode highlights the connection…
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Today Episode is part 1 Nico shares two clips from yourPARO Weekly videos, which are part of a free membership program that provides access to design tips, research, and tricks. The first clip discussed the importance of having a healthy home and how it contributes to a healthy life. The host emphasizes the need to regularly evaluate one's spaces a…
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The Perfect Coffee Table Size : Learn Standard Dimensions To Make Your Home Amazingly Comfortable.
35:15
Have you ever wanted to know what size coffee table you need in your living room? Or how much space you need to sit comfortably at the dining table? In todays episode Nico discusses the importance of standard dimensions in creating a comfortable and functional home. You will learn all about standard dimensions, the measurements based on anthropomet…
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Forget the standard IQ test - that only measures a very narrow definition of intelligence. Meet psychologist Howard Gardner, professor of cognition and education at Harvard and one of the foremost thinkers and writers in the fields of education, cognition, and multiple intelligences. His fascinating research into different kinds of intelligence (th…
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The podcast episode discusses the significance of antiques and vintage items in our homes. These objects often come with a story, and our brains are wired to remember information better when it is presented in the form of a story. Sharing stories can strengthen our connection to others and even lead to positive changes in our lives. Possessions tha…
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Pain can be felt anywhere in the body, but it all originates in the same place: the brain. Lorimer Moseley, a professor of clinical neurosciences at the University of South Australia and a specialist in how the brain produces pain signals, joins us today to talk about how pain is created as a protective strategy. Your brain, which is constantly mon…
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A home reset is a great way to assess and adjust your living environment to better suit your life. It helps to create spaces that are intentional and bring joy, alignment, and positive energy into the home. Doing so can lead to increased confidence and social life, better time management, and improved mood. To reset your home, it’s important to pay…
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Making design decisions can have a significant impact on our lives and it is important to be thoughtful and deliberate in the process. To make effective design decisions, start by gathering inspiration, embracing your own style and story, and paying attention to your physical and emotional responses in various spaces. Nico talks about setting time …
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Interior design is a powerful tool for influencing wellbeing. Creating "That Something" is integral in creating a meaningful space that can promote physical and emotional health. Nico chats about herself and how she ahs taken years of experience and personal risks to expand knowledge to serve you. Additionally, understanding the needs and wants of …
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Babies and toddlers have truly outstanding brains - they absorb information broadly, quickly, and indiscriminately as they learn about the world, with processing speeds that leave AI-powered robots in the dust. Alison Gopnik, professor of psychology and affiliate professor of Philosophy at U.C. Berkeley, has been studying baby brains for decades, a…
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In this episode Nico talks about routines and how routines are an important part of keeping our homes and lives organized by helping to reduce stress and provide comfort in times of change. In order to create a clutter-free kitchen environment, one key takeaway is to establish a consistent dishwasher routine by running it at a specific time each da…
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Your early experiences literally change the way you think and feel about the world -- they even shape what you see and hear. Dr. Chantel Prat, a cognitive neuroscientist and professor at the University of Washington, studies how variations in brain wiring make each of us unique individuals and drive our understanding of each other, and of the world…
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In this episode on yourHOME by design. Interior Designer and researcher Nico Smutylo discusses how trends in home decor have played a major role in interior design and how they can both be beneficial and detrimental. Nico explains the importance of finding what speaks to you personally rather than following trends, and provides strategies for creat…
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Our brains evolved for a simpler life, and today they struggle to cope with a deluge of distraction from technology. Dr. Adam Gazzaley, professor of neurology at the University of California San Francisco, reveals why the brain loves multi-tasking even though it's so bad for productivity; why "single-tasking" is so hard to relearn; and why 60-year-…
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