What do virtual reality, the placebo effect, and mindfulness have in common? They empower the brain! Learn how scientists engage neuroplasticity with VR, reduce painful symptoms with the placebo effect, and increase focus with mindfulness.
VR and Neuroplasticity
Neuroplasticity is the ability of our brains to grow and adapt as we age, learn new things, and face illness and injury. Professor Harsimran Baweja explains how his lab develops virtual reality-based brain interventions that utilize neuroplasticity to produce positive outcomes for Parkinsons patients.
The Placebo effect
We’ve all heard of the placebo effect, but have you heard the latest research? Professor Ted Kaptchuk explains how the scientific understanding of placebo has changed after years of research. He highlights some current studies evaluating how placebo cannot cure disease, but it may help the brain to turn down bodily symptoms.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a hot-button topic today in popular media, but the field of mindfulness research is just getting started. Dr. Ruchika Prakash explains her lab’s preliminary findings on using mindfulness meditation to help reduce mind wandering, and their hopes to continue to study the possible implications for mental and physical health.
QED with Dr. B
QED with Dr. B, is a fun and informative science series, co-produced by WOSU Public Media and the Center for Science and Industry (COSI), that talks one-on-one with the scientists, engineers and innovators who are redefining how we interact with our world.
Watch the series online or on WOSU TV on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m.