"A neuroscientist's guide to boosting your brain health by living a more connected life, and thriving in a post-interaction world. How do our brains behave in a world where face-to-face exchanges are growing increasingly rare, often replaced with virtualinteractions? Renowned neuroscientist Dr. Ben Rein delves deep into the science of social interaction, revealing how our brains are wired for connection and why modern life is challenging our ancient instincts. Packed with astonishing teachings from the world of neuroscience, Rein uncovers the intricate brain systems that drive our social behaviors with exceptional clarity, sharing how to leverage this wiring to your advantage and adapt in an ever-changing world. Enlightening and empowering, this powerful book explains the impact of social interaction on mind, brain, and body. You'll learn: The hidden dangers of isolation and why it increases the risk of death by any cause; the neuroscience of empathy and deep connections; why the brain experiences virtual interactions differently from in-person encounters; the science-and unexpected benefits-of likeability and the secrets of making a positive impression; how relationships with animals can support our health; how certain drugs like ecstasy enhance socialconnections, while others like pain killers impair them; practical strategies for improving your social life to maximize benefits to your mental and physical health. Weaving together cutting-edge scientific discoveries, storytelling, and practical adviceinspired by data, Rein reveals how our brains and our bodies are made stronger by connection, and why brain health is critical to our wellbeing"-- Provided by publisher.
"An exquisite book that reminds us our minds aren't soloists but symphony players: we are wired for connection."—David Eagleman, PhD, author of Incognito and Livewired
A neuroscientist’s guide to boosting your brain health by living a more connected life, and thriving in a post-interaction worldHeadlines have made clear that we are in a crisis of loneliness, but the conversation has yet to explore how spending less time with others can impact the body and mind on a cellular level—and why this knowledge is part of the way forward. Renowned neuroscientist Dr. Ben Rein dives into the fascinating science of social interaction, revealing how our brains are wired for connection and why modern life is challenging those ancient instincts. Through the lens of neuroscience, he explains our need for community and provides new frameworks for bringing togetherness into our lives. Rein uncovers the mesmerizing biological factors at play in our moments together, from small talk with baristas to deep conversation with friends, and shares how to leverage this information to our advantage as we seek happiness and health.
Enlightening and empowering, this illuminating book reveals:
- The hidden dangers of isolation and why it increases the risk of death by any cause
- Why the brain experiences virtual conversations differently from in-person encounters
- The science of likability and the secrets of making a positive impression
- The neuroscience of empathy, deep bonds, and how we understand others
- How relationships with animals can support our health
- How certain drugs like ecstasy enhance social exchanges, while others like painkillers impair them
- Strategies for improving your social life to maximize benefits to your mental and physical health
Weaving together cutting-edge scientific discoveries, storytelling, and practical advice inspired by data, Rein reveals how our brains and our bodies are made stronger by connection, and ultimately why brain health is critical to our well-being.
