Look up and connectLook up and connect
All In The Mind
When you’re waiting in a queue there are various ways to bide your time: chat to someone, gaze off into the distance, or check your phone. The science of human interaction tells us that the impact on your brain and body is vastly different depending on your choice. Live person-to-person connection changes us and the society we live in, so it’s in our best interests to use technology sensibly. This program was first broadcast in June 2019.
29:05•19 Jan 2020
The Science of Human Connection: Why Looking Up Matters
“So one of the things that is really interesting around how you grow brains is: I could show you a picture of two Three-Year-Old brains.”
Picture yourself waiting in line at your favorite coffee shop. You could scroll through your phone, but what if you struck up a conversation instead? This episode of 'All In The Mind' dives into the fascinating world of human interaction and its profound effects on our brains and bodies. Neurophysiologist Fiona Kerr sheds light on why live, face-to-face connections are more than just pleasant—they're essential for our well-being.
Kerr explains how making eye contact and engaging in real conversations can synchronize brain patterns, boost our immune systems, and enhance socio-emotional health. She also discusses the limitations of technology in fostering genuine intimacy and the importance of balancing screen time with personal interactions, especially for children's brain development. By looking up from our screens and connecting with those around us, we open ourselves to new possibilities and enrich our lives in ways that technology simply can't replicate.
Whether you're a parent concerned about your child's screen time or someone looking to improve your own mental health, this episode offers valuable insights into the transformative power of human connection.

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