The Neuroscience and Psychology of Vindictive Personalities: Why Some People Become Consumed by Bitterness, Revenge and the Success of Others

“Holding onto anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to suffer.” While this quote is often attributed to the Buddha, modern neuroscience suggests there is truth behind the sentiment. Chronic bitterness and vindictiveness affect not only relationships but also the brain and body of the person who carries them. Most people experience jealousy,… Read More The Neuroscience and Psychology of Vindictive Personalities: Why Some People Become Consumed by Bitterness, Revenge and the Success of Others

The Zeigarnik Effect: The Brain Hates Unfinished Stories

Leaving behind a trail of letters, cards, cryptic messages, song lyrics, gifts, or symbolic references after a separation can have many psychological meanings. The behavior itself is not enough to diagnose someone’s intentions, but neuroscience and psychology offer several explanations for why some people communicate this way instead of speaking directly. The Brain and Ambiguous… Read More The Zeigarnik Effect: The Brain Hates Unfinished Stories

Cortisol and Recovery: How the Body Learns Safety Again

One of the most remarkable discoveries in neuroscience is that the brain and body are designed to recover. Years of stress can change cortisol rhythms, but those changes are not necessarily permanent. Through neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganise itself—the nervous system can gradually move from survival back to regulation. What is cortisol? Cortisol is often called… Read More Cortisol and Recovery: How the Body Learns Safety Again

Complicated Grief

Complicated Grief refers to a persistent, intense, and often disabling form of grief where the natural healing process becomes stuck or delayed. The emotional pain remains acute for a long time and can interfere with daily functioning, identity, sleep, and emotional regulation. It is different from normal grief in that the intensity does not gradually… Read More Complicated Grief

Oxytocin is a hormone and neurotransmitter heavily involved in:

It is often called the “bonding hormone” or “love hormone,” although neuroscience shows its role is more complex than that simple label suggests. When Are Oxytocin Levels Released? Oxytocin release increases during: This is why physically and emotionally intimate relationships can create strong feelings of bonding and emotional attachment. Oxytocin and Romantic Relationships Research suggests oxytocin helps: In healthy… Read More Oxytocin is a hormone and neurotransmitter heavily involved in: