The field of neuroscience was transformed a mere 35 years ago with the development of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Although fMRI does not record the firing of individual neurons, it does allow scientists to identify which parts of the brain are active during certain tasks by measuring changes related to neuronal activity. That’s how we’ve learned so much about human behavior that we had only guessed at or imagined before. In the 12 fascinating lessons of Neurohack It: Using Neuroscience for Better Living, you’ll learn how to take the latest discoveries from neuroscience research and apply them to your own life. These hacks go way beyond an opinion piece in the latest consumer publication or the most exciting but unproven new chemical product at the corner health food store. Dr. Paula Croxson not only recommends significant hacks to improve your life but also describes the study behind the hack as well as the exact way it can benefit your own life.

According to Google’s own statistics, people query about 1 billion questions related to human health every day. Depending on disease trends, news, seasonality, and other factors about 10–25% of those questions are related to the brain. When we look at the brain-related topics consumers are interested in, we see questions about memory and cognition, mental health and emotions, sleep and insomnia, brain health and aging, and focus and productivity, among many others. You’ll find neurohacks you can use in your own life for each of these topics in Neurohack It.

Rated 5 out of 5 by the professor from Neuroscience Hacks for Clearer Grasp of life. Neuroscience for Better Living is one of those rare courses that feels alive from the first minute to the last. Dr. Paula Croxson, DPhil., a brilliant Oxford trained neuroscientist with a doctorate in philosophy, brings a level of clarity, warmth, and presence that is simply extraordinary.Her teaching style is magnetic. As she speaks, her hands move with purpose, almost reaching through the screen to draw you into the ideas. It creates the uncanny sense that you're not watching a lecture, but sitting in the room with her. The course is grounded in the most current research from leading universities and neuroscience centers, yet it never feels abstract or clinical. Dr. Croxson has the rare gift of translating cutting edge science into practical, meaningful guidance for everyday life. She begins with a clear, accessible overview of what neuroscience actually does, then moves into the topics that shape how we live: improving memory, staying focused, harnessing creativity, cultivating happiness and satisfaction, managing stress, building residence, the importance of sleep, rest and recovery, nutrition and the various diets, the effects of substances like cannabis (which The Great Courses recently produced a fantastic lecture set of, with a captivating professor), and a very interesting discussion of dementia and its spectrum of illnesses. Dr. Croxson, concludes the lecture series with the criticality of relationships and the danger of loneliness, and finally, how to hone ones decision making skilsl through understanding social media false information. Her discussion of resilience truck a personal chord for me. Having lived through Vietnam and years of law enforcement, I've seen firsthand how the brain adapts under pressure. Her explanation of neuroplasticity, a concept I've studied for years, was not only accurate but beautifully conveyed. She made the science feel hopeful, reminding us that the brain remains capable of growth and change throughout life. I highly recommend the book title, 'Aging with Grace', which follows 678 Catholic nuns through their entire life. Every lecture felt too short, not because the content was lacking, but because Dr. Croxson is such a compelling presence. Her energy, articulation, and expressive gestures make the material come alive. She embodies what you hope for from an Oxford trained professor and The Great Courses lecture sets.Mastery of the subject, passion for teaching, and the ability to make complex ideas feel personal and relevant! This is a five star course in every sense. I sincerely hope Dr. Croxson continues creating more Great Courses Lecture sets.

Date published: 2026-05-11

Rated 5 out of 5 by The Redeemer from Great content on a fascinating subject. This course is not only worthy of the five stars I gave it but is also worthy of having us come to its defense against childish trolls who rate courses with a single star simply to vandalize this forum. The trailer alone deserves more than a single star. Though I doubt that the one star reviewer even took the time to watch that. If you genuinely completed every lecture then please post a review as anyone who has ever missed the first exam knows, it is near impossible to build back your average when there is a zero involved.

Date published: 2026-05-07