Wellness - Project Cleris

Optimizing Your Approach to Understanding and Effectively Managing Migraines

January 13, 2024

by Project Cleris with No Comment Blog

When people hear the word “migraine,” they think it’s just a severe headache or pain slightly more than a throbbing sensation in the temples. However, there are differences between the two that are important to note.

What is a migraine?

A migraine is more than a headache; it’s a neurological condition affecting more than one billion individuals yearly. Its most notable aspect is a pulsing headache on one side of the head, but it’s common to have a migraine without this pain. Other symptoms include aura, ringing in the ears, neck or shoulder pain, nausea, light or sound sensitivity, and irritability. Aura is a mixture of sensory, motor, and speech symptoms that act as warning signals before a migraine attack begins. About 15-20% of people experience migraine with aura.

There are four stages of a migraine attack. The first is prodrome, also known as preheadache, which can last a few hours to a few days. Symptoms include difficulty concentrating, speaking and reading, and moving muscles. The second is aura; this is the stage that some people may skip. The third is attack. Its main feature is a headache, and symptoms mimic an illness (nausea, loss of appetite, chills or sweating, dizziness). The last is post-drome, also called a migraine “hangover,” as its symptoms are similar to one: aches, mental fog, and feeling physically drained.

Figure 1: Overview of the Four Phases of a Migraine

How are the dealt with?

Unfortunately, very little is known about what triggers a migraine. The best way to deal with a migraine is to avoid it in the first place: if you can figure out its triggers, then avoid it.

Common triggers include drugs like alcohol and caffeine, stress, bright lights, strong smells, and a lack of sleep. Genetics also plays a significant role. About 60% of people have migraines because they inherited it.

If over-the-counter medicines like Advil Migraine or Excedrin Migraine don’t work, doctors can prescribe sumatriptan or rizatriptan. Both block pain pathways in the brain.

In general, hunkering down in a quiet, dark place and resting is the best way to deal with migraine pain. While there’s a common misconception that migraines are just more painful headaches, they are much more than that and should be taken seriously. As you would with any illness, do what you must do to feel better.

*Figure 2: The Brain With a Migraine in an MRI*

Sources:

https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2019/november/migraines-vs-headaches

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8904749/#:~:text=Migraine%20affects%20more%20than%20one,among%20young%20adults%20and%20females

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/-/scassets/images/org/health/articles/5005-migraine-headaches.jpg

https://www.mayo.edu/research/centers-programs/migraine-research-program/overview#:~:text=Migraine%20is%20challenging%20to%20study,the%20disorder%20as%20a%20disease

https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/CHtrxODCBCw9pmMDeotVPi-I7fI=/1500×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/brain-lesions-on-mri-in-migraines-4044746-5c93cd0646e0fb00014427d0.png

Gaming Wonders: The Science Behind the Screen

January 6, 2024

by Project Cleris with One Comment Blog

Have you ever found yourself lost in the immersive worlds of video games and wondered about the wizardry behind them? Well, buckle up as we take a deep dive into the fascinating science and technology that make our favorite gaming adventures possible.

Graphics and Animation

In the visually rich landscapes and characters of video games, a seamless integration of art and science takes place. Developers utilize techniques like texture mapping and shading to craft engaging environments. Our examination begins with the technical nuances that constitute the visuals, shedding light on how pixels contribute to the creation of digital landscapes.

Artificial Intelligence in Gaming

The lifelike behaviors of non-player characters (NPCs) often feel like true users, but it’s the result of carefully implemented artificial intelligence (AI). Developers deploy algorithms that govern NPC actions, bringing a dynamic element to the gaming experience. For example, in Grand Theft Auto (GTA) and Roblox, non-player characters (NPCs) operate through sophisticated AI systems. These systems use decision-making algorithms to create role-specific behaviors, allowing NPCs to react dynamically to the player’s actions. Advanced AI may include adaptive learning, environmental awareness, scripted events, and randomized elements, contributing to a dynamic and realistic gaming experience.

Mani (GTA NPC), Image by GTA – Wiki Fandom

Roblox NPC, Image by Roblox Developer Forum

Virtual Reality: Mechanics of Immersive Gameplay

Within this captivating technological realm, players are not merely spectators; they become active participants, navigating a three-dimensional space that transcends the boundaries of traditional gaming. In the expansive universe of VR, users have the opportunity to explore distant galaxies, unravel ancient mysteries, and interact with environments in ways previously unimaginable.
The transformative nature of VR lies in its ability to engage multiple senses simultaneously. Visual immersion is achieved through high-resolution displays and sophisticated optics that mimic the intricacies of the human eye. Additionally, spatial awareness is meticulously crafted, allowing users to perceive depth, distance, and scale with an unprecedented level of precision. The result is an intricate dance of technology and human perception, seamlessly blending the virtual and physical worlds.
Moreover, the mechanics of VR extend beyond the visual and spatial realms. Haptic feedback technology adds a tactile dimension to the experience, enabling users to feel virtual textures, surfaces, and even the recoil of virtual weaponry. This tactile feedback, coupled with precise motion tracking, enhances the sense of presence, making users feel truly connected to the virtual environment.
The significance of VR in gaming goes beyond its immersive qualities. It catalyzes innovation, fostering the development of new gameplay mechanics, interactive narratives, and social experiences. Collaborative virtual spaces enable users to connect with others worldwide, creating a shared virtual reality that transcends geographical boundaries.

However, players contribute to the evolving landscape through strategic decisions and interactions. This section emphasizes that every gamer, regardless of attire or setting, plays a part in the ongoing narrative of virtual adventures.
As this article is concluding, remember this: behind every pixel, NPC maneuver, and virtual reality wonder lies a symphony of science and innovation. Gaming isn’t just entertainment; it’s a dynamic collaboration between creators and players, shaping immersive worlds. So, as you venture forth with your controller in hand or don the VR headset, remember that you are not merely a spectator; you are an active participant in this grand symphony of gaming. The pixels respond to your commands, NPCs dance to the algorithms you set in motion, and the immersive worlds of virtual reality await your exploration.

References:

As this article is concluding, remember this: behind every pixel, NPC maneuver, and virtual reality wonder lies a symphony of science and innovation. Gaming isn’t just entertainment; it’s a dynamic collaboration between creators and players, shaping immersive worlds. So, as you venture forth with your controller in hand or don the VR headset, remember that you are not merely a spectator; you are an active participant in this grand symphony of gaming. The pixels respond to your commands, NPCs dance to the algorithms you set in motion, and the immersive worlds of virtual reality await your exploration.

References:

TeamViewer. (2023, 29 marzo). What is virtual reality (VR) and how does it work? https://www.teamviewer.com/en/info/what-is-virtual-reality-vr-and-how-does-it-work/
Carter, R. (2023, 1 junio). How does virtual reality work? XR Today. https://www.xrtoday.com/virtual-reality/how-does-virtual-reality-work/
Stegner, B. (2019, 11 octubre). Video game graphics and settings explained. MUO. https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/video-game-graphics-settings-explained/
Stegner, B. (2019, 11 octubre). Video game graphics and settings explained. MUO. https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/video-game-graphics-settings-explained/
Encyclopedia, C. T. G. T. (s. f.). Mani. Grand Theft Encyclopedia. https://gta.fandom.com/es/wiki/Mani
Wilkins, M. (2021, 15 agosto). 5 NPCs in GTA games that protagonists have interesting interactions with. Sportskeeda. https://www.sportskeeda.com/gta/5-npcs-gta-games-protagonists-interesting-interaction
Starloop Studios. (2023, 20 octubre). AI Advancements and Hurdles: Perfecting Non-Player Characters. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ai-advancements-hurdles-perfecting-non-player-characters#:~:text=Non%2Dplayer%20characters%2C%20or%20NPCs,to%20a%20compelling%20gameplay%20experience.
What is an NPC and why it matters for your game storytelling. (s. f.). https://www.rosebud.ai/blog/what-is-an-npc-video-games-storytelling
Cover image credit: Image by Iman Pham on Unsplash

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Human Perception Unveiled: A Distinctive Collection of Our Perceptions

December 23, 2023

by Project Cleris with No Comment Blog

Our sensory processing is how we perceive and organize the messages from our senses (visual, auditory, taste, smell, touch, and body awareness). Sensory receptors are located throughout our body and constantly send messages to our brain and spinal cord. When these sensory receptors receive a message, they conduct an electrical impulse that is transmitted by neurons to our central nervous system (composed of our brain and spinal cord). Our neurons process this information and turn it into a motor or behavioral response. The impulse travels to our motor neurons and is sent to an effector (ex: a muscle or a gland) to execute a motor or behavioral response.

Someone looks at their glass of water, which activates their visual receptors. An electrical impulse is sent to their central nervous system, relaying a message. Through seeing this glass of water, their central nervous system receives the message that the body is thirsty. The impulse travels to the motor neuron to get a muscle to pick up the glass of water and take a drink. A muscle (effector) picks up the glass of water and the person drinks it.

Everyone processes stimuli differently, so our perception of the world sounds to us varies. Individuals who are neurodivergent or have atypical sensory processing can experience hypo sensitivity (under-responsive) or hypersensitivity (over-responsive). For example, those who are auditory-seeking are hyposensitive to sound, so they may need constant auditory stimulation through music, podcasts, or ambient noise.

Hypersensitivity may look like:

Visual: Lights are too bright, reacting suddenly to changes in bright lights
Auditory: Sounds are too loud or overwhelming, suddenly reacting to loud noises
Taste: The texture of certain foods may feel gross or out of place
Smell: Sensitive to strong scents such as perfumes
Touch: Sensitive to textures you touch, such as itchy clothes
Body Awareness: Bumping into objects and struggling with balance

Hyposensitivity may look like:

Visual: Enjoys visual stimulation such as bright and colorful light
Auditory: Going to concerts, listening to music at higher volumes
Taste: Likes to chew on things for stimulation
Smell: It may take longer to identify certain scents
Touch: Less awareness when it comes to being touched
Body Awareness: Struggling to keep still; you may not always recognize other people’s personal space

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Image source: Research Gate

Stem Cells: The Fascinating Power Of Regenerative Medicine

November 25, 2023

by Project Cleris with No Comment Blog

What are stem cells? Maybe you’ve heard about them in science class, on the news, or in one of your favorite podcasts. In today’s world of medicine, stem cells can be considered revolutionary. They hold the power to make incredible advancements in medicine which could potentially change the way we fight and treat many diseases. In this article, we will cover the properties of stem cells, their current uses, and how they may further help in the near future.

An Overview:

Stem cells can be considered like clay; they can be molded, crafted, and shaped into anything. These cells can turn into specialized cells, which have their own unique function. Stem cells exist in all of our bodies and are found in a variety of tissues and organs such as the brain, pancreas, bones, skin, and heart.

There are multiple types of stem cells, two of which are currently being explored further.

Adult Stem Cells:

All around the body, we have a variety of stem cells. Some of these cells, such as stem cells found in the skin, are always active, whereas others lay dormant until needed. (ex, stem cells in the liver) One important note is that adult stem cells cannot freely turn into any type of specialized cell. They only turn into specialized cells that are in the surrounding area. For example, a stem cell in the heart could turn into a variety of cardiac cells, but would not have the capability to turn into a nerve cell in the brain. This trait of adult stem cells is something we call “multipotent”.

Embryonic Stem Cells:

Embryonic stem cells are much different than adult stem cells. They are found in a developing human embryo, typically from only the 4th-7th day after fertilization. These cells are considered pluripotent, meaning they can transform into any type of specialized cell.

Current Uses of Stem Cells:

Though stem cell treatment and therapy are both very new concepts, doctors and researchers have already developed some relatively safe uses for adult stem cells. For example, cancer patients who may have had red blood cells destroyed in treatment may be eligible for a “stem cell transplant” or “bone marrow transplant”. During this process, stem cells from a donor (Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant) are introduced into the patient. The goal is that the patient’s body accepts the cells as its own, and in turn, can create new red blood cells. Stem cells can also come from the patient. Doctors may extract stem cells from the patient, store them, then reintroduce them at a later point. (Autologous Stem Cell Transplant) These types of transplants have also been proven to fight off certain blood-borne diseases. Currently, the use of stem cells in people is still quite limited. Doctors are still working towards using embryonic stem cells as they are more complex and harder to work with.

Further Research/Investigation:

Ongoing research is being conducted on the potential uses of stem cells. Researchers have worked with embryonic stem cells that will develop into a specialized cell of their choice. This could potentially be useful in testing drugs that target certain types of cells. On top of this, researchers are working to use embryonic cells with repairs involving tissue, organs, and even the spinal cord.

Conclusion:

Stem cells are still a big question mark in terms of their uses. Doctors and researchers continue to explore potential benefits. Through research, stem cells may have the potential to reshape the medical landscape, and change the way we treat diseases in the future.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/bone-marrow-transplant/in-depth/stem-cells/art-20048117

https://stemcell.nd.edu/research/alternative-stem-cell-sources/adult-stem-cells/#:~:text=Unlike%20embryonic%20stem%20cells%2C%20which,they%20reside%20(called%20multipotent).

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/bone-marrow-transplant/about/pac-20384854

https://www.whatisbiotechnology.org/index.php/science/summary/stem/stem-cells-repair-tissues-and-regenerate-cells

https://www.unmc.edu/stemcells/educational-resources/importance.html

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Clear Vision Unveiled: How Do Contact Lenses Work?

November 18, 2023

by Project Cleris with No Comment Blog

At least 2.2 billion people around the globe have impaired vision, and of these people, 140 million wear contact lenses. There are two general categories of contact lenses: soft and hard (also known as rigid gas permeable or RGP). Soft contacts are made of flexible plastics that offer more comfort and stability than hard contacts but are more difficult to insert and remove. On the other hand, hard contacts have a longer lifespan and lower risk of infection, but it’s easier to dislodge them from the eye.

Figure 1: Comparison of how different contacts look on the eye

How Do Contact Lenses Work?

No matter if they’re soft or RGP, contact lenses have a fascinating science behind them. They sit on top of the cornea, the eye’s transparent outer layer. There, they correct the refraction of light. Refractive errors make it challenging for the eye to focus light how it usually does, which results in blurry vision, and eyewear (glasses and contacts) fixes this issue.

For example, myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is the eye focusing light in front of the retina instead of directly onto it. Contact lenses help you see clearly by adjusting the light rays to angle further back into your eye, right onto the retina.

Glasses Vs. Contact Lenses

Of course, glasses are another option for blurry vision. However, many prefer contact lenses because they move with the eye, meaning you can look around a space with perfect vision. Glasses often leave room at the edges that they can’t correct. Also, contacts are handy with outdoor sports as they won’t fog up or get wet, unlike glasses.

While it can take some time to get used to the feeling of weight on your eye, contacts are a fan favorite for various reasons. They’ve come a long way since being invented in 1888 and are so technologically advanced that only 1 out of 500 wearers get severe eye infections! Whether you wear them or are simply intrigued by the innovation behind them, contact lenses promise a clearer and brighter future for all.

Sources:
10 Fun Facts About Contact Lenses | Professional VisionCare
The contact lens mistakes you might be making, and other important eye health tips
Types of Contact Lenses | FDA
Differences between Soft and Hard Contact Lenses | The Canadian Association of Optometrists
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/326747398/figure/fig1/AS:654865197973504@1533143438259/Two-major-types-of-contact-lenses-Photographs-showing-the-a-hard-and-b-soft-contact.png
https://www.wolfeeyeclinic.com/filesimages/CorneaDisease/CorneaDisease_HeathyEyeDiagram.jpg
How Do Contact Lenses Work?: Benjamin Optical: Eye Center

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Perfume : A Scent-sational and Fascinating World

November 4, 2023

by Project Cleris with One Comment Blog

Have you ever wondered how perfumes work? Or why some scents make you feel happy while others make you feel sad? From the comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies to the invigorating scent of a pine forest, we often find that certain smells can remarkably transport us through time and space, awakening a cascade of feelings and memories. But really, how does it all come into play?

The History of Perfumes

Although France comes to mind when we think of perfume or fragrances, the ancient art of perfumery arose in ancient Mesopotamia. The world’s very first recorded chemist was a perfume maker named Tapputi, whose existence was recorded in 1200 BC in Babylonian Mesopotamia. Flowers, oils, seeds, leaves, and other plant parts were common ingredients in early perfumes.

Once mixed with water and other solvents, it would be distilled and filtered. Later on, perfume would reach Rome, the Middle East, and other European nations.
The reason perfumery is most associated with France is that in the 14th century, the French started the cultivation of flowers for perfume in the subprefecture of Grasse, which continues until this day. Grasse is now considered to be the world capital of perfume.

The Road to Make a Perfume

Most perfumes obtain their smell through the extraction of fragrant oils from natural sources like plants, fruits, and wood. Some even use substances from animals, like musk from male deer. However, scents that don’t occur naturally may be created by synthetic chemicals. The methods employed to extract essential oils include steam distillation, expression, and enfleurage.

These oils are later blended to produce a unique scent. Ingredients like alcohol, coal, and tar may be added to adjust or alter the strength of the scent. If the perfume contains a higher concentration of essential oil, it will be more fragrant and generally more costly. This is what differentiates fragrances from one another.

The Emotional Ties to Scents

Perfumes work by releasing molecules into the air that we can smell. When we inhale them, these molecules bind to the highly specialised olfactory receptors in our nose, which can are able to detect thousands of different molecules. This binding will trigger a signal being sent to the brain, which will later correlate to a response.
Signals from sensory organs pass through the brain’s limbic system, which handles behaviours, emotions, and emotion-related memories.

The amygdala, a part of the limbic system, is responsible for emotional processing. It is also the part that connects emotions to memories. This is why certain scents can trigger strong emotions or memories.

So next time you wear a perfume, take a moment to appreciate the science behind it. And remember, the right scent can have a powerful effect on your mood and your memories.

Sources:

Images:

The Grave Effects of Marijuana Consumption

October 28, 2023

by Project Cleris with No Comment Blog

Introduction:

Imagine you are at a social gathering and someone offers you a joint. You may have heard about the effects of marijuana from science classes and the media, but you may still be uncertain about what to expect. What happens to your brain and body when you embark on this journey? From the euphoric highs to the pitfalls of this green plant, in this exploration, we will dive deep into the intricate tapestry of marijuana’s effects on the brain and body, shedding light on both its allure and potential consequences, and examining the scientific side of this drug.

The Origins of Marijuana

Marijuana, also known as cannabis, has been a part of human culture for centuries. From traditional customs to modern recreational use, it has played a significant role in various cultures worldwide. While originally used for medicinal purposes, the use of this plant spread from Asia to Africa, Europe, and the Americas. In America, hemp, a variety of cannabis, was widely cultivated in the colonies of Virginia, Massachusetts, and Connecticut as a versatile resource for textiles, paper, and more. It is surprising to know that the early hemp plants had very low levels of the psychoactive compound THC. There are hints that ancient civilizations may have recognized the psychoactive potential of certain strains of the plant, potentially cultivating them for ceremonial or medicinal purposes. Evidence found in the graves of ancient shamans, including charred cannabis seeds, dates back to 500 BC and sheds light on the journey of cannabis through time.

The Compounds of Cannabis

At the heart of marijuana’s enigmatic effects are over 500 distinct compounds in this green plant. The scent of this plant is due to the compound terpenoids which are responsible for the aroma of cannabis and other flowering plants. Studies show that terpenoids have diverse physiological effects, and they may contribute to the effects of cannabis. Moreover, cannabis contains unique compounds known as cannabinoids, with over 100 different types identified. The most well-known cannabinoid, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, including changes in perception, mood, emotion, cognition, and motor function. CBD has been receiving increasing attention due to its potential therapeutic properties. These intricate compounds work together by interacting with the endocannabinoid system within our bodies, a sophisticated web of receptors that control a collection of physiological processes. The fascinating part is how various strains of marijuana contain different concentrations of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids and terpenes. The chemical makeup of these drugs affects the body and mind in outlandish ways and understanding these compounds is essential for unraveling the mysteries of marijuana’s influence on our lives.

Short Term Effects

Even though the consumption of cannabis has long-term effects, it also has short-term effects that are striking and immediate. Those who consume edibles, smoke, or vape often find themselves embarking on a unique journey. In the presence of euphoria and an altered perception of this drug, colors appear more vivid, music becomes a symphony of sensations, and even food tastes different. However, this altered state always comes

with a price: impaired coordination and reflexes, an increased heart rate, dry mouth, and bloodshot eyes are frequent sidekicks of the cannabis experience. After taking cannabis, daily tasks that require concentration and focus may also be adversely affected temporarily when taking marijuana. When high doses or individual predispositions are present, this journey can unexpectedly turn into anxiety and paranoia. As a result, your heart rate can increase, making you more likely to suffer a heart attack, panic attack, or stroke.

Long Term Effects:

Through many years of debate and extensive scientific research, the effects of marijuana on the brain and body come with many long-term effects that might alter your mind about the narcotic. Cannabis use has been linked to various adverse health outcomes. Studies have shown that prolonged marijuana use can impair cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and learning (short-term memory), especially in adolescents. Furthermore, research shows that the usage of marijuana can raise the desire for alcohol,

increase the risk of bleeding, increase appetite, reduce the effectiveness of antiviral drugs, and lead to addiction. Moreover, addiction can lead to a lack of motivation and a decrease in educational and occupational achievements. There is a growing body of evidence linking cannabis use with mental health problems, psychosis (which can mimic the symptoms of schizophrenia), and more harmful substances.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, our journey into the world of marijuana has revealed a complex and intricate landscape that requires a deep understanding of its nuances. While this green plant has deep historical and cultural roots, it also carries a myriad of compounds that interact with the human body and mind in unique ways. From the euphoric highs to the potential pitfalls, marijuana’s effects are both captivating and consequential through the various compounds that are within this potent green plant.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-marijuana/art-20364974

https://www.drugfreeworld.org/drugfacts/marijuana/short-and-long-term-effects.html

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Fight or Flight is Not Always Black and White

October 1, 2023

by Project Cleris with One Comment Blog

The fight or flight response is a physiological response from high-stress levels or dangerous situations. It’s a natural response that can save lives. This response helps us escape danger or prepare for a physical confrontation. So you might be wondering, “How is this response activated?”

It starts with the brain, specifically the amygdala. The amygdala senses a potential threat and sends a signal to the hypothalamus. This signal activates the sympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system connects the brain to internal organs using spinal nerves. It’s responsible for responding to threats and stress. When this system is stimulated, the heart rate and blood flow to the muscles increase while blood flow to the skin decreases. A large part of this response is the hormones released, such as adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline is a hormone produced by your adrenal glands, and it’s quickly sent to your bloodstream. Adrenaline increases focus, which is why we are able to make quick decisions in our fight-or-flight response. Cortisol is a stress hormone that controls blood sugar levels, regulates metabolism and acts as an anti-inflammatory. The body is now prepared to respond!

During this response, your body is prioritizing anything it needs for survival. Digestion, reproductive and growth hormone production, and tissue repair are halted. Your body prioritizes what to expend its energy on.

Your sympathetic nervous system responds to danger, and your parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for maintaining homeostasis (our body’s way of maintaining overall stability). It ensures that everything in our body is running smoothly. Dr. Fisher says “[t]hink of your sympathetic and your parasympathetic nervous system like your car’s gas and brakes…[y]ou need to use both effectively for your car to run properly.” Your sympathetic system keeps you alive in danger, and your parasympathetic system relaxes your body so you can return to normal.

Source: Penn State University
In prehistoric times, we were surrounded by danger and various threats. A rustling bush, for example, could indicate that a lion is attempting to kill you. Our ancestors developed this response for our survival. There may not be immediate danger around us anymore, but we still have this instinct. This can become a problem when our fight-or-flight response gets triggered in non-threatening situations such as giving a presentation or meeting a deadline for a project. Our body reacts to these situations as if they are truly dangerous.
This response may not always be beneficial. The response can be counterproductive if the stress isn’t perceived as a real threat. This can lead to anxiety or physical symptoms like insomnia and headaches. Repeatedly activating this response can lead to chronic stress. Chronic stress may cause long-term problems that affect the heart and blood vessels. Since there is a constantly increased heart rate, there are higher levels of stress hormones and blood pressure. Our muscles can become “stuck” in a guarded state. Some triggers include fear, stress, and environmental factors like loud noises or bright lights. It’s important to learn how to manage this response. Breathing exercises are one technique to accomplish this. Deep breathing exercises activate the parasympathetic nervous system and can counteract the effects of the response. Regular exercise and physical activity can also reduce stress and improve your health.
This response can save us from potential dangers. Our body becomes prepared to respond to these stresses with the help of our nervous system. While it was helpful for our ancestors, it may also contribute to heightened stress responses in modern times. It’s important to find ways to manage our stress using healthy coping mechanisms.
Sources
Sympathetic nervous system | Definition & Function | Britannica
What Happens to Your Body During the Fight-or-Flight Response?
Cortisol | You and Your Hormones from the Society for Endocrinology
Adrenaline: Where the hormone is located & what it does
Understanding the stress response – Harvard Health
Stress effects on the body

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Continuous Learning: The Self Improvement Path with Neurological Benefits

September 23, 2023

by Project Cleris with One Comment Blog

Whatever we think we know, there is always something new to learn and ways to improve ourselves. The journey of self-improvement is never-ending, but it’s a worthwhile one. That’s why Continuous Learning is both the answer to many questions and also a way to improve our neurological health.

Continuous Learning refers to acquiring new knowledge, skills, or experiences throughout your life. You could, for example, learn a new language, take up a new hobby, read books on various topics, attend courses or workshops, or even travel to new places to learn about different cultures. The key is to keep your mind engaged and actively seek opportunities to learn and grow.

Learning something new on a regular basis is important because it keeps your mind active and engaged, keeps you curious and open-minded, and can lead to personal and professional growth. By acquiring new knowledge, skills, or experiences, you can expand your perspective, increase your confidence, and become more adaptable to change. Exploring your interests and passions, connecting with others, and enriching your life will also be fun and rewarding.

Also, this activity can have significant neurological benefits. It can help improve cognitive function, memory, and overall brain health. Regular engagement in learning activities can also reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline and dementia. Challenging your brain and building new neural pathways can enhance your ability to think critically, solve problems, and make decisions. So, make learning a lifelong habit and reap the many benefits it can offer for your brain and overall well-being.

A new language, a musical instrument, a new skill or hobby, a new subject or topic, a new recipe, a new exercise routine, a new game or puzzle, a new technology or software, a new culture or history, and many other things are examples of continuous learning. . The key is to push yourself and engage in enjoyable and mentally stimulating activities. You can improve your brain function and overall well-being by doing so.

References:

What is Continuous Learning? Its Importance & Benefits. https://www.valamis.com/hub/continuous-learning

Productive Use of Our Time – TPW398 – The Productive Woman. https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-use-of-our-time-tpw398/

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Personality Tests and Why People Love Them

September 9, 2023

by Project Cleris with One Comment Blog

From the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator test to those Buzzfeed questionnaires that tell you what kind of bread you are, personality tests have become an increasingly popular entertaining activity. People take these tests for various reasons, whether to get to know themselves better or to figure out what kind of person is their ‘perfect match.’ However, the accuracy and truth of personality tests are often subject to debate, mainly due to their very foundation. Despite this, the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is popular among individuals and corporations.

The MBTI test sorts people into 1 of 16 personalities based on four cognitive foundations: Extraversion/Introversion, Sensing/Intuition, Thinking/Feeling, and Judging/Perceiving. The name of each personality type is an abbreviation of the four starting letters of the preferred cognitive function, e.g., ENFP.

In the 1920s, Katharine Briggs and Isabel Briggs-Myers, an American mother-daughter duo with no formal training in psychology, developed the personality test. However, the true origins of the theory behind the acclaimed test is a book written by Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung, namely Psychological Types. Jung’s work was entirely theoretical and based on personal experience.

“This was before psychology was an empirical science,” says Adam Grant, a psychologist at the University of Pennsylvania. “The characteristics measured by the test have almost no predictive power on how happy you’ll be in a situation, how you’ll perform at your job, or how happy you’ll be in your marriage.”

The basis of many personality tests is inherently theoretical, not through controlled experiments or data. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator test is no exception to this common notion. Nevertheless, people are still drawn to it. It is embedded in human nature to be curious, and this curiosity drives our pursuit of knowledge. The same applies to understanding ourselves, and who we are in relation to the many individuals in this world.

That’s why we love taking personality tests.

We are enticed by the prospect of discovering something new about ourselves, whether our strengths and weaknesses or what kind of parents we will become. The kind of job that suits us best. The kind of friends that suit us best. The kind of partner that suits us best. Personality tests can also help us understand those around us better; they reinstall the connected nature of humanity.

But maybe, just maybe, there lies another reason beyond wanting to learn something new: the yearning to feel less alone. Every person on this planet leads their own life; with their own family, friends, hopes, and dreams. It’s hard not to feel lonely. Through media-like personality test results, people are reminded that others think like them. In a world so vast yet so small, there is comfort in knowing that people like you exist, even when the science behind it remains unproven.

SOURCES:
https://www.simplypsychology.org/the-myers-briggs-type-indicator.html
https://www.vox.com/2014/7/15/5881947/myers-briggs-personality-test-meaningless
https://careerassessmentsite.com/why-is-the-mbti-assessment-popular/#:~:text=People%20want%20to%20understand%20themselves.&text=Human%20identity%20and%20personality%20are,making%20sense%20of%20this%20complexity.

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