Exploring Brain and Mind

Elke Wallace
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Brain and mind are intrinsically connected but often seen as separate. Every week, “Exploring Brain and Mind” will combine neuroscience research, tips to keep brain and mind healthy and functioning well as well as talks with guests in different professions from science, coaching, leadership, healing and spirituality. Join your host Elke Wallace, founder of Mastering Your Mind Matters, on her mission to help as many people as possible to understand how their brain and mind work so they can take more control of their lives and make better choices. Follow and subscribe to "Exploring Brain and Mind" on Apple, Spotify and all other podcasts and find more information about Mastering Your Mind Matters on www.masteringyourmindmatters.com.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Episode 54 - The Invention of Madness: History, Culture, and the Business of the Mind

    Episode Summary: How did we go from "balancing humors" to a $400 billion global pharmaceutical “mental health industry”? In this episode, we trace the long evolution of mental illness – from ancient Mesopotamia and Greek medical theory to the birth of modern psychology. We explore how the "Medical Model" created a Western standard for the mind and ask a critical question: Has this standardized "business" of mental health overwritten thousands of years of global wisdom? Key Discussion Points: ·      Ancient Origins: Tracing the shift from supernatural views (demons and spirits) in Mesopotamia to the biological "humoral" theories of Hippocrates and the holistic Ayurvedic approaches in ancient India. ·      The Asylum Era: How the 18th-century intent to create "sanctuaries" for the vulnerable devolved into overcrowded warehouses before the rise of "moral treatment." ·      The Pharmaceutical Revolution: The turning point in 1952 with the discovery of Chlorpromazine and how it birthed the "medical model"—the idea that a pill could fix a mind. ·      The Business of the Mind: Analyzing the 1980s shift toward "checklist" diagnoses (DSM-III), the rise of direct-to-consumer advertising, and the $400 billion industry that now defines global mental health. ·      The Psychological Bridge: How figures like Wilhelm Wundt and Sigmund Freud shifted the focus from "fixing a body" to "understanding a complex mind," introducing personality and environment into the diagnostic equation. ·      Cultural Literacy: Why the Western focus on the "individual" can clash with collectivist cultures that view mental distress as a social or familial fracture rather than a personal chemical imbalance. Featured Resources: ·      The Charaka Samhita (Ancient Ayurvedic text) ·      The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III) ·      Historical figures: Hippocrates, Philippe Pinel, Wilhelm Wundt, and Sigmund Freud. SEO Keywords: History of Mental Health, Evolution of Psychology, Pharmaceutical Industry History, Global Mental Health, Cultural Psychiatry, DSM-III, Medical Model, Ancient Medicine, Trephination, Deinstitutionalization, History of Psychology, Mental Health Industry, WEIRD Bias, Cultural Psychiatry, Cross-Cultural Psychology, Pharmaceutical History, Individualism vs Collectivism, Somatization FURTHER INFORMATON AND LINKS: Exploring Brain and Mind is part of Mastering Your Mind Matters – the website www.masteringyourmindmatters.com is being updated. All enquiries linked to Exploring Brain and Mind, including enquiries about being a guest, should exclusively to the following email: welcome@masteringyourmindmatters.com Exploring Brain and Mind is currently a one-person venture with limited financial resources. Donations to the following link would be greatly appreciated to help improve services: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/a91052d4-5b30-406a-a41c-158c4b5f9cc0/donations To find out more about the host you can follow Elke Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elke-a-wallace Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElkeWallacePage Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/exploring-brain-and-mind/exclusive-content

    25 min

  2. 7 JAN

    Episode 53 – Year 1 and Beyond – A Revlective Review and What’s Next

    Episode Summary: The episode offers a reflective review of the podcast’s first year that includes some observations and personal opinions. It also offers a glimpse into what’s to come in Year 2 – with the possibility of a six-month hiatus due to time commitments but a preferred alternative of monthly episodes replacing the current weekly ones (at least for the first six months). YouTube listeners and followers will gradually be introduced to the first 17 episodes once they have been prepared and uploaded. Weekly promo posts of various past episodes will continue on social media platforms LinkedIn and Facebook. Key Takeaways: ·     Gratitude to Listeners, Followers, Subscribers and those who shared episodes ·     IMPORTANT: Email for all podcast enquiries is welcome@masteringyourmindmatters.com (as mentioned in every episode’s show notes) ·     Reflective review of Year 1 ·     The way forward for the podcast in Year 2 SEO Keywords: Review, reflection, next steps, podcast, continuation, changes, monthly episodes, hiatus, interview guests wanted Further information and links about Host Elke Wallace: Exploring Brain and Mind is currently a one-person venture with limited financial resources.. Therefore, donations would be greatly appreciated to help improve services. Donation link: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/a91052d4-5b30-406a-a41c-158c4b5f9cc0/donations To find out more about Mastering Your Mind Matters and its range of services, please visit www.masteringyourmindmatters.com. Email: welcome@masteringyourmindmatters.com To find out more about the host you can follow Elke Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elke-a-wallace Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElkeWallaceBusiness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@e.ahttps://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace/.wallace?lang=en Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/exploring-brain-and-mind/exclusive-content

    13 min

  3. 31/12/2025

    Episode 52 – What the World Can Learn from … African and Middle Eastern Wisdom

    Episode Summary In the final episode of the “What the World Can Learn From…” series, which is Episode 52 of the Exploring Brain and Mind Podcast, I explore the profound wisdom of African and Middle Eastern cultures – traditions rooted in community, spirituality, unity and ancestral connection. Through teachings such as Ubuntu (“I am because we are”), Vital Force, ancestral memory, Tawheed (oneness), Baraka (blessing and flow), and Hikmah (inner wisdom), this episode reveals how these two regions offer timeless guidance for modern wellbeing, compassion and collective resilience. Listeners will discover how these ancient insights align with modern neuroscience – from the social brain and the benefits of belonging to nervous system regulation, gratitude and the power of reflective wisdom. This closing episode invites us to see ourselves not as isolated individuals but as interconnected beings woven into community, ancestry, spirit and the living world. Key Takeaways ·      Ubuntu – Interconnected Humanity: Wellbeing is relational; “I am because we are.” ·      Vital Force – Life Energy: Harmony in relationships strengthens emotional and physical vitality. ·      Ancestors – Continuity and Identity: A sense of lineage enhances resilience and psychological grounding. ·      Tawheed – Oneness of Existence: Unity consciousness reduces stress and deepens compassion. ·      Baraka – Blessing and Spiritual Flow: Gratitude and awe activate positive emotional states. ·      Hikmah – Wisdom through Reflection: Humility, insight, and contemplation support mental clarity and emotional maturity. ·      Modern Relevance: African and Middle Eastern teachings offer powerful antidotes to Western individualism, disconnection and spiritual exhaustion. SEO Keywords African wisdom, Ubuntu philosophy, Middle Eastern spirituality, Tawheed, Baraka, Hikmah, ancestral teachings, relational wellbeing, cultural psychology, exploring brain and mind, social brain, global wisdom traditions, compassion science, ancient teachings Further information and links about Host Elke Wallace: Exploring Brain and Mind is currently a one-person venture with limited financial resources.. Therefore, donations would be greatly appreciated to help improve services. Donation link: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/a91052d4-5b30-406a-a41c-158c4b5f9cc0/donations To find out more about Mastering Your Mind Matters and its range of services, please visit www.masteringyourmindmatters.com. Email: welcome@masteringyourmindmatters.com To find out more about the host you can follow Elke Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elke-a-wallace Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElkeWallaceBusiness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@e.ahttps://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace/.wallace?lang=en Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/exploring-brain-and-mind/exclusive-content

    13 min

  4. 24/12/2025

    Episode 51 – What the World Can Learn from … Indigenous Australian Teachings and Wisdom

    Episode Summary In this episode of Exploring Brain and Mind, I explore the rich philosophical and spiritual wisdom of Indigenous Australian cultures -- some of the oldest continuous knowledge systems in the world. Through teachings on Country (the land as a living being), the Dreaming, kinship, deep time, and the importance of listening, this episode reveals how Indigenous worldviews understand identity, responsibility, connection and wellbeing at a profound level. Listeners will discover how these ancient teachings align with modern neuroscience – from the psychological benefits of nature connection and community-based identity to the calming effects of deep listening and long-term thinking. This episode invites a reimagining of wellbeing: not as an individual achievement, but as a relational, ecological and ancestral experience. Key Takeaways ·      Country – The Land as Living Spirit: Nature is not a resource but a relationship that shapes identity and mental health. ·      The Dreaming – A Web of Story and Time: Meaning arises from story, continuity and connection across generations. ·      Kinship – Relational Identity: Community, belonging and shared responsibility strengthen resilience. ·      Deep Time – Perspective and Stewardship: Thinking across vast timescales enhances wisdom and emotional balance. ·      Sacred Knowledge – Listening and Presence: Silence and observation support clarity, empathy and nervous system regulation. ·      Modern Relevance: Indigenous teachings offer profound guidance in a world dominated by speed, individualism and disconnection. SEO Keywords Indigenous Australian teachings, Aboriginal wisdom, Torres Strait Islander culture, Dreaming, Country, kinship systems, deep time, ecological wellbeing, cultural psychology, Indigenous spirituality, neuroscience and nature, relational identity, exploring brain and mind, ancestral wisdom Further information and links about Host Elke Wallace: Exploring Brain and Mind is currently a one-person venture with limited financial resources.. Therefore, donations would be greatly appreciated to help improve services. Donation link: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/a91052d4-5b30-406a-a41c-158c4b5f9cc0/donations To find out more about Mastering Your Mind Matters and its range of services, please visit www.masteringyourmindmatters.com. Email: welcome@masteringyourmindmatters.com To find out more about the host you can follow Elke Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elke-a-wallace Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElkeWallaceBusiness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@e.ahttps://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace/.wallace?lang=en Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/exploring-brain-and-mind/exclusive-content

    13 min

  5. 17/12/2025

    Episode 50 – What the World Can Learn from … Ancient Indian Teachings and Wisdom

    Episode Summary In this episode of Exploring Brain and Mind, I explore India’s ancient wisdom traditions – including Yoga, the Vedas, Hindu philosophy, and Buddhist insights – and how they illuminate purpose, consciousness, wellbeing and the nature of the mind. From the grounding principles of Dharma (purpose and moral alignment) and Ahimsa (non-violence) to the energetic teachings of Prana and the consciousness practices of meditation and yoga, this episode reveals how Indian philosophy anticipated many ideas modern neuroscience now confirms. Listeners will discover what Western, industrialised societies can learn from India’s holistic approach to living – where wellbeing is shaped not by achievement or productivity, but by presence, alignment, breath, compassion and daily practice. Key Takeaways ·      Dharma – Purpose and Alignment: True wellbeing comes from living according to your values and strengths, not external achievement. ·      Ahimsa – Compassionate Living: Non-violence in thought, word, and action reduces distress and strengthens emotional resilience. ·      Prana – Breath and Life Energy: Conscious breathing regulates the nervous system and calms the mind. ·      Yoga – Integration of Body and Mind: A holistic science that trains discipline, awareness and inner balance. ·      Atman – Inner Self and Consciousness: Meditation reveals a deeper identity beneath thoughts and emotions. ·      Karma – Action Shapes Reality: Habits and intentions sculpt the brain and future behaviour. ·      Modern Relevance: India’s teachings offer timeless tools for mental clarity, emotional regulation and purposeful living. SEO Keywords Indian philosophy, Dharma, Ahimsa, Yoga, Pranayama, meditation benefits, Vedic teachings, Hindu wisdom, Buddhist philosophy, Indian spirituality, wellbeing practices, neuroscience of meditation, consciousness, Exploring Brain and Mind, mind–body connection, ancient teachings Further information and links about Host Elke Wallace: Exploring Brain and Mind is currently a one-person venture with limited financial resources.. Therefore, donations would be greatly appreciated to help improve services. Donation link: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/a91052d4-5b30-406a-a41c-158c4b5f9cc0/donations To find out more about Mastering Your Mind Matters and its range of services, please visit www.masteringyourmindmatters.com. Email: welcome@masteringyourmindmatters.com To find out more about the host you can follow Elke Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elke-a-wallace Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElkeWallaceBusiness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@e.ahttps://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace/.wallace?lang=en Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/exploring-brain-and-mind/exclusive-content

    13 min

  6. 10/12/2025

    Episode 49 – What the World Can Learn from … Indigenous Northern European Wisdom

    Episode Summary In this week’s Episode 49 of Exploring Brain and Mind, I explore the wisdom of Indigenous Northern Europe’s teachings and wisdom – including Norse, Celtic, Anglo-Saxon and Sámi worldviews. These teachings, often overshadowed by myth or folklore, carry profound insights into connection, resilience, nature, community and the human mind. From the Norse concept of Wyrd, the great web of interconnection, to Frith, the ancient principle of social peace and trust, this episode uncovers how these cultures understood relationship, responsibility and belonging long before modern psychology existed. We also step into the worldview of the Sámi people, whose deep relationship with the land – seeing nature as alive, conscious, and communicative – aligns beautifully with the neuroscience of ecological wellbeing. Listeners will learn how the rhythms of Northern Europe – its harsh winters, bright summers and cyclical seasons – shaped a mindset of patience, balance, endurance and harmony with the natural world. And they’ll discover what our fast-paced, individual-driven Western culture can learn from these ancient teachings today. Key Takeaways ·      Wyrd – The Web of Interconnection: A reminder that everything we do ripples outward; our lives are woven into a shared tapestry of relationships and consequences. ·      Frith – Social Peace and Trust: Community, loyalty and mutual care form the foundation of wellbeing; belonging is essential to mental and emotional health. ·      Nature and Seasonal Rhythms: Northern cultures lived in tune with the cycles of the Earth. Rest and activity followed natural rhythms – a pattern neuroscience now recognises as vital for health. ·      Sámi Teachings – Land as a Living Relative: Nature is not a resource but a relationship. Listening to the land cultivates empathy, connection and resilience. ·      Resilience through Meaning and Community: Difficult climates shaped cultures of endurance, shared responsibility and purpose-driven strength. Resilience is not individual – it is collective. ·      Modern Relevance: Western societies can rediscover balance by honouring rhythms, rebuilding community and embracing ecological and relational intelligence. SEO Keywords Northern European Indigenous teachings, Norse wisdom, Celtic spirituality, Sámi worldview, Wyrd, Frith, ecological connection, Indigenous European philosophy, resilience psychology, exploring brain and mind, ancient wisdom, relational wellbeing, nature-based healing, seasonal living, cultural intelligence, neuroscience and culture Further information and links about Host Elke Wallace: Exploring Brain and Mind is currently a one-person venture with limited financial resources.. Therefore, donations would be greatly appreciated to help improve services. Donation link: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/a91052d4-5b30-406a-a41c-158c4b5f9cc0/donations To find out more about Mastering Your Mind Matters and its range of services, please visit www.masteringyourmindmatters.com. Email: welcome@masteringyourmindmatters.com To find out more about the host you can follow Elke Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elke-a-wallace Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElkeWallaceBusiness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@e.ahttps://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace/.wallace?lang=en Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/exploring-brain-and-mind/exclusive-content

    13 min

  7. 03/12/2025

    Episode 48 – What the World Can Learn from ... Polynesian and Hawaiian Wisdom

    Episode Summary In Episode 48 of Exploring Brain and Mind, I delve into the timeless wisdom of Polynesian and Hawaiian teachings – traditions grounded in connection, integrity and harmony with life itself. Through principles such as Aloha (love and compassion), Mana (spiritual energy), Pono (balance and righteousness), Kuleana (responsibility), Lōkahi (unity and harmony), Ohana (family and belonging) and Ha (the breath of life), this episode explores how ancient island wisdom aligns with modern neuroscience. Listeners will discover how these values nurture psychological balance, resilience and wellbeing – revealing that our minds flourish when we live in coherence with nature, community and spirit. I also connect these teachings to modern brain science: how kindness activates neural pathways of empathy, how breath regulates the nervous system and how moral alignment and connection strengthen both mental and physical health. This episode invites reflection on what it truly means to live “in harmony” – where wellbeing is we-based, not me-based. Key Takeaways ·      Aloha – A Way of Being: More than a greeting, Aloha is the practice of compassion and presence – the “divine breath” that connects all life. ·      Mana – Inner Power: Personal energy strengthened by integrity, authenticity and right action. ·      Pono – Balance and Righteousness: Living in ethical and emotional alignment – the mind’s natural self-correction toward harmony. ·      Kuleana – Responsibility: Recognising one’s role in the greater whole; acting with care and purpose strengthens both self and community. ·      Lōkahi – Unity and Harmony: The integration of self, others, and nature – mirroring the brain’s ability to create coherence between thought and feeling. ·      Ha – The Breath of Life: Conscious breathing as a bridge between mind and body; calming the nervous system and restoring presence. ·      Ohana – Connection and Belonging: Extending the idea of family to include friends, community and the natural world. ·      Lessons for Modern Life: True intelligence includes emotional, social, and spiritual wisdom – reminding us that wellbeing grows from balance, cooperation and compassion. SEO Keywords Hawaiian teachings, Polynesian wisdom, Aloha philosophy, Mana, Pono, Kuleana, Lokahi, Ohana, Ha breath, Hawaiian spirituality, island mindset, mindfulness, neuroscience of wellbeing, emotional balance, community connection, cultural intelligence, ancient teachings Further information and links about Host Elke Wallace: Exploring Brain and Mind is currently a one-person venture with limited financial resources.. Therefore, donations would be greatly appreciated to help improve services. Donation link: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/a91052d4-5b30-406a-a41c-158c4b5f9cc0/donations To find out more about Mastering Your Mind Matters and its range of services, please visit www.masteringyourmindmatters.com. Email: welcome@masteringyourmindmatters.com To find out more about the host you can follow Elke Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elke-a-wallace Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElkeWallaceBusiness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@e.ahttps://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace/.wallace?lang=en Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/exploring-brain-and-mind/exclusive-content

    18 min

  8. 26/11/2025

    Episode 47 – What the World Can Learn from … Japanese Teachings and Wisdom

    Episode Summary In this week’s Episode 47 of Exploring Brain and Mind, I take listeners on a journey through Japanese teachings and cultural mindsets – but first revisits an important element of China’s worldview: its education system. By comparing East Asian and Western education practices, this episode reveals how cultural values shape not only academic outcomes but also identity, purpose, responsibility and mental wellbeing. This comparison creates the perfect bridge into understanding Japanese philosophy. From the discipline and collective focus of Japanese education to the deeper teachings of Ikigai, Wabi-sabi, Kaizen and Zen presence, listeners will discover how Japan’s worldview offers a powerful antidote to the West’s obsession with perfectionism, productivity and individual achievement. This episode explores how Japanese wisdom aligns with modern neuroscience and how its practices – from forest bathing to mindful imperfection – support emotional balance, resilience and a more meaningful approach to life. Key Takeaways ·      Education as Cultural Philosophy: China and Japan both emphasise discipline, effort and respect, but Japan uniquely integrates community responsibility, moral development and daily habits that cultivate humility and cooperation. ·      Ikigai – Your Reason for Being: A reminder that purpose and fulfilment come from meaningful alignment rather than external achievement. ·      Kaizen – Continuous Improvement: Small, steady steps outperform dramatic overhauls; neuroscience confirms that incremental progress sustains motivation and habit-building. ·      Oubaitori – Don’t Compare: Everyone blooms in their own time. Let go of comparison and honour your unique path. ·      Wabi-sabi – Beauty in Imperfection: Acceptance and authenticity reduce perfectionism and support emotional regulation. ·      Kintsugi – Golden Repair: Our cracks and scars contribute to our beauty and resilience, not our shame. ·      Zen & Shoshin – Beginner’s Mind: Presence, curiosity, and simplicity quiet mental noise and strengthen neuroplasticity. ·      Shinrin-yoku – Forest Bathing): Immersion in nature calms the nervous system and enhances wellbeing. ·      Hara Hachi Bu: Stop eating at 80% fullness – a practice linked to metabolic health and longevity. SEO Keywords Japanese philosophy, Japanese teachings, Ikigai, Kaizen, Wabi-sabi, Kintsugi, Zen, Japanese education system, Eastern vs Western education, Exploring Brain and Mind, mindfulness, Japanese mindset, self-improvement, emotional wellbeing, cultural wisdom, neuroscience and culture, forest bathing Further information and links about Host Elke Wallace: Exploring Brain and Mind is currently a one-person venture with limited financial resources.. Therefore, donations would be greatly appreciated to help improve services. Donation link: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/a91052d4-5b30-406a-a41c-158c4b5f9cc0/donations To find out more about Mastering Your Mind Matters and its range of services, please visit www.masteringyourmindmatters.com. Email: welcome@masteringyourmindmatters.com To find out more about the host you can follow Elke Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elke-a-wallace Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElkeWallaceBusiness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@e.ahttps://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace/.wallace?lang=en Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/exploring-brain-and-mind/exclusive-content

    19 min
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About

Brain and mind are intrinsically connected but often seen as separate. Every week, “Exploring Brain and Mind” will combine neuroscience research, tips to keep brain and mind healthy and functioning well as well as talks with guests in different professions from science, coaching, leadership, healing and spirituality. Join your host Elke Wallace, founder of Mastering Your Mind Matters, on her mission to help as many people as possible to understand how their brain and mind work so they can take more control of their lives and make better choices. Follow and subscribe to "Exploring Brain and Mind" on Apple, Spotify and all other podcasts and find more information about Mastering Your Mind Matters on www.masteringyourmindmatters.com.

Information

  • Creator
    Elke Wallace
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    55
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Exploring Brain and Mind