Pops of colour in your work space – a vase of cheery flowers, a Lichtenstein print – can boost your focus. In a new study from Curtin University, people scored significantly higher when they took a test in white rooms with a vibrant red, yellow or blue wall compared with pastel ones. Bright hues tend to be arousing, which may stimulate neutral activity, improving concentration and your ability to learn.
Pops of colour in your work space – a vase of cheery flowers, a Lichtenstein print – can boost your focus. In a new study from Curtin University, people scored significantly higher when they took a test in white rooms with a vibrant red, yellow or blue wall compared with pastel ones. Bright hues tend to be arousing, which may stimulate neutral activity, improving concentration and your ability to learn.
Change doesn’t come in nickels and dimes. It comes in dedication and sweat. TONI SORENSON, AUTHOR
Help, it’s stuck in my head
Based on a study published by the American Psychological Association, one way to get rid of an earworm is to play the entire song to stop it from being on epeat. Many people have reported that listening to the song till the end can help break the loop.
Breath in breath out
Dr Melanie Austin-McCain, an assistant professor at the New York Institute of Technology, said research has shown that having healthy daily routines can help you live a better and longer life. One way is to set aside time for meditation. She advises aiming for short periods of stillness to visualise your goals and set daily targets, rather than set a goal of 30 minutes to meditate.
STAY STRONG
Feel as if your willpower is weakening? Make a fist to help boost it. According to Iris Hung, a professor of marketing at Fudan University, research shows that because we tend to unconsciously tighten our muscles when we need more physical or mental strength, our brains have learned to associate the act with greater self-control. Clenching your fist becomes a cue to renew your willpower whenever you need the resolve to choose an apple over a doughnut or go to the gym when you’d rather laze on the couch.
Happy together
A study published in the American Psychological Association journal Health Psychology has shown that having a happy spouse may be related to improved health. Cheerful partners are more likely to make their other half’s life easier, encourage them to engage in healthy activities and provide better support.
