readingistravel's review

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5.0

This was a nice and interesting read. I found a lot of surprising things in it, that I already knew but didn't know the science behind it. If you love to learn about the brain and how hormones work, and want an easy read, I would recommend this book.

cristina_g_'s review against another edition

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informative reflective medium-paced

5.0

"Habits of a Happy Brain" by Loretta Graziano is an enlightening exploration of how our brain's chemistry influences our happiness. The book adeptly delves into the tools that can help shape a happier brain, drawing from the understanding of chemicals like dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins. Graziano's insightful approach highlights actionable strategies that readers can adopt to cultivate positivity and enhance their overall well-being. The book serves as a valuable guide for those seeking to better understand the science behind happiness and implement practical techniques to lead a more joyful life.

Upon introspection, I've discerned that the following insights from "Habits of a Happy Brain" have resonated deeply with me, pinpointing the areas I should actively focus on incorporating into my life:

- 45-Day Rule: This rule holds the potential to bring about tangible change as I commit to establishing new habits that contribute positively to my overall well-being.

- Satisfice Tool: Embracing the concept of embracing "good enough" outcomes has struck a chord with me, offering a way to effectively manage stress and cultivate a kinder relationship with myself.

- Breaking the "I will be happy when" Pattern: This particular mindset shift has deeply resonated, serving as a reminder to treasure each moment rather than postponing happiness to some distant achievement.

Identifying these areas for growth, I'm enthusiastic about weaving these insights and tools into the fabric of my life's journey, in pursuit of amplified happiness and personal development.

drowningnbooks's review

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reflective fast-paced

4.25

thyprecious's review against another edition

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informative medium-paced

4.0

radkat's review

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informative inspiring medium-paced

5.0

The book is focused on four neurochemicals (dopamine, endorphin, oxytocin, serotonin) and places them in the context of being a human - again and again.
Why are those important? Because they are the actual/technical reason we do anything. Cortex can process lots of information but if the limbic system doesn't say “go”, nothing happens.
Knowing which neurochemical does what is good for debugging your own life and correcting behaviors but there are a few high-level observations:
  • Happy chemicals are designed to be released in short bursts and be reabsorbed
    • Don't try to create a long lasting good feeling: it's against the nature and can lead to addiction
  • Cortisol (unhappy chemical) has a message
    • Don’t ignore the bad feeling, don't try mask it or stuff it away: try to tolerate it and figure out the meaning
  • Myelination (coating of the neurons for better conductivity) happens by the age of seven and then again in puberty
    • Most of our habits are suboptimal, to say the least
  • Creating a new habit takes 45 days
    • It's either repetition or a strong emotion that paves the new nuropaths
Dr. Breuning dives deep into each of the neurotransmitter: what they are for, how they work, what they signal, how to place them and their function in the context of being a human in the modern world. She gives some prompts and exercises along the way to help the reader apply the theoretical material on their own life.


myshelfjourney's review against another edition

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informative inspiring reflective fast-paced

5.0

teaganpotter's review

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informative inspiring reflective fast-paced

5.0

terentieva_95's review against another edition

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informative fast-paced

3.5

tjowilson81's review

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4.0

makes you look at things and life different.

Good book to help put perspective on things. 45 days to a new way of looking at life. In a good way.

victorialu's review

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informative

3.75

some parts felt a bit unnecessary but really interesting read!!