Hi there,

Some time ago, I shared how my childhood fascination with the human brain led me to become a Feldenkrais Practitioner, combining movement and neuroplasticity to enhance brain function.

As an avid reader, I’ve filled our home library with books about the human nervous system. Most of them are dense, technical, and a challenge to get through. But every once in a while, I stumble upon a book that makes me think, I wish everyone would read this!

“7 & ½ Lessons About the Brain” by Lisa Feldman Barrett is one such book.

A neuroscientist by trade, Lisa accomplishes something remarkable: she delivers a captivating and accessible narrative about the human brain without overwhelming the reader.

In the Author’s Note, Lisa sets the tone: “I wrote this book of short, informal essays to intrigue and entertain you…” And that’s exactly what she does.

Here are a few highlights from the book:

• “Your Brain Is Not for Thinking”
  (Spoiler: It’s designed to manage complex movement!)

• “Little Brains Wire Themselves To Their World”
  (A fascinating look at how caregiving shapes a child’s brain.)

• “Your Brain Secretly Works With Other Brains”
  (Fun fact: The best—and worst—thing for your nervous system is another human being.)

Reading this book was a delight. On one hand, it reaffirmed many ideas fundamental to the Feldenkrais Method. On the other, it opened my mind to new and unexpected perspectives.

At less than 200 pages, this slim volume is perfect for a weekend read. I highly recommend it to anyone curious about the brain and its role in shaping our lives.

I’ll leave you with one of my favorite quotes from the book:

“Sometimes we’re responsible for things not because they’re our fault, but because we’re the only ones who can change them…”

Happy reading!