[BOOK SUMMARY] The Tale of the Dueling Neurosurgeons 🧠 by Sam Kean

This book is a great introduction to the world of the brain 🧠. It's science that reals like a novel! My favorite takeaways:

Listen to the podcast episode here: https://bywdreams.mailerpage.com/118

1. Neurons and Neurotransmitters. Neurons only transmit information in one direction and they do not touch. The shorthand Kean has for this is DCBA or dendrite to cell body to axion. The way neurons communicate is through chemicals--known as neurotransmitters-- which close the gap between them like a wave washing up on the shore. There are over 100 neurotransmitters (gasp!) and each of them cause distinct and sometimes seemingly contradictory messages to our brains which then sends out signals to our body to act. For instance, one neurotransmitter that is released as we go to sleep simultaneously sends out stimulating signals and paralyzing ones. The stimulating ones cause us to dream and process information, the paralyzing ones keep our limbs immobile so we don't sleepwalk.
2. Neuroplasticity. The brain appears to be endlessly changeable (plastic). This is a relatively new belief. When I was in undergrad 30 years ago, neuroplasticity was believed to lessen after childhood. In the book, Kean describes training that can help people remodel their brain, even after severe losses. For instance, people who suffer from vertigo because of damage to their inner ear can regain their balance with a training that uses electrical impulses to the tongue to help their brain relearn what being plumb feels like. With enough remodeling, they can eliminate their vertigo and the need for the electrical stimulation. Another example is how people who are blind can reactivate the vision centers of their brain by echolocating. For more on neuroplasticity read Growth Mindset by Carol Dweck https://amzn.to/4mipmas

Listen to the podcast episode here: https://bywdreams.mailerpage.com/118

Next week's topic (8/29/25): [PLANNING] Make Invisible Work, Visible

Two weeks: [PLANNING] How to Pick the Perfect Planner (for You!)

Resources:

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-Start my life design course "Harness the Power of Planning" now! http://tinyurl.com/hpopondemand

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