Why warm hugs feel so good to your brain

Feeling warm or cold doesn’t just register on the skin—it changes how connected we feel to our own bodies. Research shows that temperature sensations help shape body ownership, emotional regulation, and mental well-being. Disruptions in thermal perception are linked to conditions like depression, trauma, and stroke-related body disconnect. These insights could lead to new sensory-based mental health treatments and more lifelike prosthetics.

from Relationships News -- ScienceDaily https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251228074455.htm

The brain switch that could rewrite how we treat mental illness

Scientists exploring how the brain responds to stress discovered molecular changes that can influence behavior long after an experience ends. They also identified natural resilience systems that help protect certain individuals from harm. These findings are opening the door to treatments that focus on building strength, not just correcting problems. The work is also fueling a broader effort to keep science open, independent, and accessible.

from Relationships News -- ScienceDaily https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251213042402.htm

Human brains light up for chimp voices in a way no one expected

Humans don’t just recognize each other’s voices—our brains also light up for the calls of chimpanzees, hinting at ancient communication roots shared with our closest primate relatives. Researchers found a specialized region in the auditory cortex that reacts distinctly to chimp vocalizations, but not to those of bonobos or macaques, revealing an unexpected mix of evolutionary and acoustic influences.

from Relationships News -- ScienceDaily https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251209043042.htm

Humans are built for nature not modern life

Human biology evolved for a world of movement, nature, and short bursts of stress—not the constant pressure of modern life. Industrial environments overstimulate our stress systems and erode both health and reproduction. Evidence ranging from global fertility declines to chronic inflammatory diseases shows the toll of this mismatch. Researchers say cultural and environmental redesign, especially nature-focused planning, is essential.

from Relationships News -- ScienceDaily https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251207031335.htm

The hidden brain bias that makes some lies so convincing

People are more likely to believe lies when there’s the possibility of a reward. Neuroimaging shows that the brain shifts into reward or risk mode depending on whether the context involves a gain or a loss. Friends show synchronized brain activity that can predict successful deception. Social bonds and incentives can subtly warp how we judge honesty.

from Relationships News -- ScienceDaily https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251116105629.htm

Feeling stressed? Science finds a simple way to take back control

Feeling in control may be the key to conquering daily stress. Penn State researchers found that people were 62% more likely to resolve everyday hassles on days when they felt greater control. This link grew stronger over time, suggesting we get better at managing stress as we age. Simple actions like setting priorities and reframing challenges can help boost that sense of control and reduce overall stress.

from Relationships News -- ScienceDaily https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251020092833.htm

From poison to power: How lead exposure helped shape human intelligence

Long before humans built cities or wrote words, our ancestors may have faced a hidden threat that shaped who we became. Scientists studying ancient teeth found that early humans, great apes, and even Neanderthals were exposed to lead millions of years ago. This toxic metal can damage the brain, yet modern humans developed a tiny genetic change that protected our minds and allowed language and intelligence to flourish.

from Relationships News -- ScienceDaily https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251015230952.htm