We often dismiss the small, playful things we do to keep life joyful: collecting trinkets, baking for no reason, blowing bubbles, looking for magic. They’re labelled childish, unnecessary, or unserious. But psychology and neuroscience tell a very different story. Today, we're breaking down the psychology of whimsy, including: What “whimsy” actually is and why it’s trending again How play helps regulate your nervous system The neuroscience of stress, imagination and brain plasticity The science of beauty and the brain (neuroaesthetics) Why small acts of joy can be psychologically protective 15 whimsy activity ideas Listen now! Watch on Netflix Follow Jemma on Instagram: @jemmasbeg Follow the podcast on Instagram: @thatpsychologypodcast Subscribe on Substack: @thepsychologyofyour20s For business:
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