Not Entirely Unlike Tea

In this episode, we'll peek at traits that some say make people "highly intelligent" - but neuroscience suggests they might actually be signs of neurodivergence. We'll talk about the brain science behind getting bored quickly, being a night owl, hyper-focusing, and being self-critical. We'll also consider tools for getting into flow state when creativity needs a boost. . ....

In this episode, we'll peek at why being "low maintenance" or "people pleasing" could make your brain see YOU as the threat.  We'll chat about how chronic "accommodation" can harm your nervous system, dysregulate your body, and cause mysterious anxiety or fatigue. We'll also cover how to negotiate with your body instead of just overriding it, with pract...

In this episode, we'll peek at the neuroscience behind how visual clutter creates cognitive load at a subconscious level, and why productivity can suddenly improve after organizing (even in completely different spaces). We'll also cover what's actually happening in your neural pathways when you declutter, and how this effect is amplified for neurodivergent brains.  . . . oh hi &...

In this episode, we'll peek at why breathing exercises can sometimes make certain people feel worse instead of better (it does not mean you or your nervous system are "broken!"). We'll talk about the neuroscience behind why forced breathing patterns can backfire for some brains in some scenarios, and look at what actually works when traditional "just breathe" advice d...

In this episode, we'll peek at why upsetting news makes our brains go offline (and why it's actually protective).  We'll talk about the neuroscience behind choosing "safe" people to seek support from, and the 5 behaviors that signal someone is unsafe to confide in.  We'll also cover what actually IS helpful when you need support, and how to be genuinely supportive of...

In this episode, we'll peek at why "just let it go" and "just get over it" and "just stop worrying" is such crappy advice from a neuroscience perspective. We'll look at how your brain actually processes emotions, & why these cliche phrases backfire to make things even worse. We'll look at what your nervous system actually needs instead, and how soci...

In this episode, we'll peek at the neuroscience behind why we feel an urge to buy organizing bins before decluttering, cleaning and organizing. We'll look at how novelty triggers dopamine release, why this effect is stronger in neurodivergent brains, & also cover some no-cost alternatives that stimulate decluttering motivation without popping into the piggy bank.  . . . oh hi & w...

In this episode, we'll peek at the neuroscience of how new environments can bring on new ideas & solutions. Novel surroundings can trigger neuroplasticity and innovation. The good news is, you don't have to vacation or travel far to experience these benefits.  We'll chat on everyday ways to create cognitive-enhancing effects - from micro-adventures to sensory shifts that spark c...

In this episode, we'll peek at the neuroscience behind how to balance generating content without draining energy and getting overwhelmed! . . . oh hi & welcome to “Not Entirely Unlike Tea” – i’m christine collins & together we'll explore how to actualize our mindset, psychology, & neuroscience for more creativity, happiness & success! . . . The Poth™ (Hypno-Pothecary) - ...

In this episode, we'll peek at the neuroscience behind why we may physically cringe at memories of our past selves and past creations. We'll explore how your brain processes these awkward moments through the same pathways as physical pain, and why this uncomfortable reaction might actually be a healthy sign of personal growth. . . . oh hi & welcome to “Not Entirely Unlike Tea” – i’m...

In this episode, we'll explore the neuroscience of emotional pain distraction and how it may be similar to the ways that one physical pain supplants another. We'll look at how some alleged "dysfunction" may actually be ingenious coping mechanisms wired into our neural pathways. . . . oh hi & welcome to “Not Entirely Unlike Tea” – i’m christine collins & together we&apos...

In this episode, we'll explore the neuroscience of humor, and how laughing literally rewires your brain for a better mindset. We'll peek at how humor reduces stress hormones, boosts cognitive flexibility, and strengthens resilience. And also chat on some practical ways to incorporate more humor into your life and business. . . . oh hi & welcome to “Not Entirely Unlike Tea” – i’m chri...

In this episode, we peek at why answering "what do you do?" can feel so hard, especially for multi-passionate or neurodivergent entrepreneurs, or those who are full-time caregivers, parents, or have disabilities. We'll look at the neuroscience of how our brains process identity, why elevator pitches feel restrictive, & how we can use alternative questions that create meaningful...

In this episode,   we'll explore the neuroscience behind why self-care is a mandatory business & content creation asset and not a luxury. We'll peek at how  brain mechanisms link well-being to business success, and look at practices that go beyond basic advice to optimize your neural resources for creativity, decision-making and success. . . . oh hi & welcome to “Not Entirely Unl...

In this episode, we'll explore the neuroscience behind why your brain loves to pop up with inspiration at the most inconvenient times - when you're trying to sleep or in the shower - and how to instead retrain neural pathways to get those genius ideas on command, at more opportune times!   . . . oh hi & welcome to “Not Entirely Unlike Tea” – i’m christine collins & together we&ap...

In this episode, we'll explore practical 5-minute techniques to consciously and cognitively up-level your mindset to improve your messaging. We'll look at transforming beliefs through incremental shifts, visualization strategies that harness neuroplasticity, and thought-management exercises - all designed to boost your confidence and content without requiring hours of your time. . . . oh...

In this episode, we'll explore what "mindset" and "messaging" really mean beyond the buzzwords, the intersection between them, and how these elements profoundly impact our business and content creation. We'll consider how mindset changes like the weather, how our internal landscape shapes all of our communication, and look at practical ways to maintain both confidence...

In this episode, we'll explore why crying offers neuro-physiological healing for both brain & body, and how tears are a sophisticated stress-relief mechanism. We'll talk about how emotional tears actually remove stress hormones from our system, and help with memory re-processing, + the neuroscience of how "allowing a good cry" helps restore emotional equilibrium & promo...

In this episode, we'll consider whether memories are factual, and explore how memories are shaped by emotions and what neuroscience tells us about this fascinating interplay. We'll examine how the brain prioritizes emotional details over factual ones, and discover why sleep plays such a crucial role in processing and transforming the emotional weight of our memories. . . . oh hi & we...

In this episode, we'll explore how decision fatigue impacts everyday performance and the cognitive costs.  We'll look at the neuroscience of mental energy depletion and talk through practical ideas to optimize your cognitive resources, preserve strategic capacity, and make more grounded choices throughout your day. . . . oh hi & welcome to “Not Entirely Unlike Tea” – i’m christine co...

In this episode, we'll explore how humming, sighing and singing can support reduction in anxiety and stress, and be used as subconscious healing tools, among others.  We'll talk about how they may help with processing emotions at a subconscious level, even when verbal articulation is difficult. . . . oh hi & welcome to “Not Entirely Unlike Tea” – i’m christine collins & together...

In this episode, we'll explore how external accountability, punishment & consequences built into systems can actually prohibit development of intrinsic motivation. We'll talk about how "anxiety-driven" motivation systems prevent internal reward pathways from developing, leaving us struggling to self-start without the punishing systems (and what would work better for us long...

In this episode, we explore the neuroscience of procrastination, and the real reasons your brain's responses may seem to undermine "good intentions." There's much more under the surface, including neural self-protection, survival mechanisms, emotional overwhelm and decision fatigue. Grab some strategies without jeopardizing your well-being -- and stop shaming yourself for norma...

In this episode, we unpack the fascinating psychology behind why people copy creative work, the neuroscience of imitation, & why your brain perceives copycats as a threat.  We'll also discover how to transform that instinctive reaction into creative fuel. We can repossess imitation as our own motivation to continuously tap into the ethers of creative flow. . . . oh hi & welcome to “No...

In this episode, we'll explore the neuroscience of why "frenemies" & toxic family can be more damaging than outright enemies. We'll look at why our brains struggle more with ambiguous threats than clear ones, and how forced politeness creates unique neurobiological strain. Plus - practical tools for protecting your peace, setting healthy boundaries, and maintaining well-bei...