Pulse Check: How Faith and Neuroscience Shape Resilience | Taylor Jeffery & Dr. Ruth Provost скачать в хорошем качестве

Pulse Check: How Faith and Neuroscience Shape Resilience | Taylor Jeffery & Dr. Ruth Provost

In this special edition of the Williams Pulse Podcast – Pulse Check, host Taylor Jeffery, campus therapist at Williams Baptist University, sits down with Dr. Ruth Provost, Vice President for Academic Affairs and former Psychology Department Chair. Together, they explore how the brain responds to stress, the science of resilience, and how faith-based perspectives connect with neuroscience and positive psychology. Key topics include: What happens in the brain during stress and healing How neuroplasticity helps us grow through adversity Why positive psychology is more than just “thinking happy thoughts” The connection between mindfulness, gratitude, and faith 🎥 This episode was filmed on the WBU campus and marks our first Pulse Check video recording! Q: What happens in the brain during stress according to neuroscience? A: During stress, the amygdala activates the HPA axis (hypothalamus, pituitary gland, adrenal cortex), releasing cortisol which triggers the fight or flight response. Chronic stress can alter neuron communication and brain structure, affecting memory and behavior. Q: What is the difference between acute and chronic stress in terms of brain function? A: Acute stress causes a temporary release of cortisol to handle immediate threats, followed by calming down. Chronic stress keeps cortisol levels high, causing ongoing brain and body issues like sleep problems and weakened immune function. Q: How does positive psychology differ from simply thinking positive thoughts? A: Positive psychology focuses on what goes right in life, identifying and using strengths to face challenges, aiming for flourishing rather than just absence of illness, and is grounded in scientific research. Q: What is neuroplasticity and why is it important in counseling? A: Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to reorganize its structure and function by forming new neural connections, allowing change in thought patterns and behaviors. It supports healing and growth through new experiences in a safe environment. Q: What are synaptogenesis and neurogenesis? A: Synaptogenesis is the formation of new connections between neurons, helping to build skills through practice. Neurogenesis is the creation of new neurons, which occurs slowly over time and contributes to brain healing and adaptation. Q: How does deep diaphragmatic breathing help calm the nervous system? A: Deep breathing activates the vagus nerve, which puts the brakes on the fight or flight response by signaling the brain to reduce cortisol release and calm racing thoughts, promoting relaxation and clearer thinking. Q: What role does gratitude play in managing stress and anxiety? A: Gratitude helps refocus attention on positive aspects and what one can control, which is grounding and reduces anxiety by interrupting negative thought patterns and promoting feelings of safety and peace. Q: How does faith integrate with neuroscience and positive psychology in counseling? A: Faith provides a spiritual foundation and common ground for believers, offering scripture-based practices like prayer and gratitude that complement scientific tools, helping individuals find rest, peace, and resilience through God's support. Q: What is the key takeaway message for students learning about neuroscience and positive psychology? A: Students should understand that the brain is beautifully created by God, that feeling overwhelmed or broken is a natural brain response to stress, and that counseling and scientific knowledge provide tools to grow, heal, and flourish in life. #WilliamsPulsePodcast #PulseCheck #NeuroscienceAndFaith #WilliamsBaptistUniversity #MentalHealthAwareness