Dangers in the Home: A History of the Perils of Stairs & Toxins

A staircase in an old house that has wallpaper on the walls illustrates dangers in the home

What hidden hazards have been lurking in our living spaces throughout history? How have seemingly innocent household features endangered families for centuries? Homes have harbored numerous threats to our health and lives over time. In his book At Home, Bill Bryson explores the surprising dangers in the home that have plagued residents since ancient times—some of which continue to threaten our safety. Read on to discover how everyday elements of your home might be part of a long tradition of domestic hazards.

Maryanne Wolf: Dyslexia Calls for Varied Solutions

Maryanne Wolf's dyslexia research is illustrated by a picture of the cognitive neuroscientist in 2020

What if reading struggles aren’t just weaknesses but signs of a differently organized brain? How can understanding the true nature of dyslexia help children develop effective reading skills? Maryanne Wolf’s dyslexia research reveals that reading difficulties exist on a spectrum. This calls for tailored interventions that can reshape neural pathways while recognizing the unique strengths that often accompany these challenges. Read on to get Maryanne Wolf’s perspective on dyslexia from her book Proust and the Squid.

Jellyfish Age Backwards by Nicklas Brendborg—Overview

An artistic image of a jellyfish swimming in the ocean

Why do people get sick and die from old age, while some other organisms don’t? Is there a way to prevent aging in humans—or even to reverse it? In Jellyfish Age Backwards, biotech researcher Nicklas Brendborg uses Turritopsis dohrnii—the immortal jellyfish—as an entry point to explore the latest research on longevity. Brendborg weaves together cutting-edge science, evolutionary biology, and practical insights about the topic. Continue reading for an overview of Jellyfish Age Backwards.

Calorie Restriction and Longevity: What’s the Connection?

A cartoon image of a person holding a burger who isn't practicing calorie restriction

Can reducing your calorie intake extend your lifespan? How much should you be eating every day? In Jellyfish Age Backwards, Nicklas Brendborg theorizes that calorie restriction and longevity are closely linked. While studies are still being done on this, there is some evidence pointing to a longer lifespan for those who eat less. Continue reading to learn more about Brendborg’s studies.

Can Cellular Engineering Reverse Aging? Yes, But at a Steep Cost

Glass test tubes in a lab that does cellular engineering

Can the human aging process be reversed? What are the associated risks with cellular engineering? Nicklas Brendborg is a Danish biotechnologist and science writer. He writes in his book Jellyfish Age Backwards that scientists have discovered a couple of ways to reverse aging, however, they pose dangerous health risks. Here’s a look at the two cellular engineering methods that Brendborg discusses.

Music as Medicine for Movement Disorders (Levitin)

A man in a wheelchair listening to headphones outside, enjoying music as a form of medicine

How can music help those with Tourette’s syndrome? How does music therapy work in the brain? In his book I Heard There Was a Secret Chord, neuroscientist Daniel J. Levitin explains how music therapy can be a powerful medicine. He specifically mentions Tourette’s Syndrome, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, and Huntington’s. Continue reading to learn how to harness music as medicine for movement disorders.

The Future of Anti-Aging Drugs (+ Their Challenges)

A cartoon image of a hand holding a handful of anti-aging drugs

Is there such thing as anti-aging drugs? What side effects do these drugs have on the body? According to Nicklas Brendborg, some medical interventions hold promise for treating the symptoms of old age—or even reversing the aging process. But, like with any medication, a lot more testing is needed. Here’s an early look at some of the anti-aging drugs that Brendborg points out.

The Power of Music Therapy for Mental Health Disorders

A young woman sitting by a window looking relaxed and listening to music for her mental health

In what ways can music improve mental health incomes? What specific mental health disorders are most affected by music? According to Daniel J. Levitin, the author of I Heard There Was a Secret Chord, music can improve mental health outcomes in two significant ways. It can also improve disorders such as bipolar disorder, depression, PTSD, and trauma. Keep reading for insight into the benefits of music therapy for mental health disorders.

4 Natural Anti-Aging Methods to Extend Your Years

A person running in a wooded park, a natural anti-aging strategy

Are you looking for natural anti-aging strategies? How can you combat the effects of aging without medication? In a society where people are looking to anti-aging medications and procedures to keep them young, natural anti-aging strategies are often overlooked. According to Nicklas Brendborg in Jellyfish Age Backwards, these lifestyle changes can extend your lifespan. Continue reading to learn how to extend your years naturally.