About this video

• Video Title: No.1 Brain Scientist: Your Brain Is Lying To You! Here's How I Discovered The Truth!
• Channel: The Diary Of A CEO
• Speakers: Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor, Steven Bartlett
• Duration: 01:35:56

Overview

This video features a conversation between Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor, a neuroscientist, and Steven Bartlett, host of The Diary Of A CEO. Dr. Taylor shares her personal experience of having a stroke and the profound impact it had on her understanding of the brain. The discussion explores the four distinct parts of the brain, how they influence our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and how understanding these parts can lead to greater self-awareness and mental well-being. They also touch upon the importance of embracing all emotions, healing from past trauma, and practical lifestyle choices for a healthy brain.

Key takeaways

• The human brain has four distinct, anatomically structured parts that shape our thinking, feeling, and behavior.
• Understanding these parts allows for conscious choice in how we experience moments, leading to improved mental health.
• A stroke in Dr. Taylor's left hemisphere, responsible for language and analytical thinking, led her to experience a profound sense of euphoria and connection from her right hemisphere.
• Emotions, when not re-stimulated by recurring thoughts, naturally last for approximately 90 seconds.
• Trauma, addiction, and cravings are linked to specific areas in the left hemisphere of the brain.
• Lifestyle choices like adequate sleep, proper nutrition, hydration, and physical movement are crucial for cellular brain health.
• Embracing all aspects of our brain, including past trauma, is essential for whole-brain living and personal growth.

Dr. Taylor identifies four characters, each corresponding to a part of the brain:

1. Character One (Left Thinking): This is the analytical, logical, and detail-oriented part of the brain, often associated with the "A-type" personality. It's responsible for facts, organization, language, and setting goals. Dr. Taylor humorously calls this part "Helen on Wheels" because of its get-it-done attitude.
2. Character Two (Left Emotion): This part of the brain is associated with past pain, grievances, and emotional reactivity. It stores past traumas and can lead to knee-jerk reactions. Dr. Taylor refers to this as the part that holds grudges.
3. Character Three (Right Emotion): This character is playful, joyful, and present-moment focused. It's about experiencing the "now" without judgment or concern for past or future. This is the part that enjoys fun and is often associated with childlike glee.
4. Character Four (Right Thinking): This is the wisdom and insight gained from experiences, facilitated by neuroplasticity. It connects us to the bigger picture, fosters peace, and allows for self-soothing and understanding. Dr. Taylor calls this the "Queen Toad" for its nurturing and comforting nature.