Dispensary Corner

DON'T start already!

Why is yawning so contagious?

University of Nottingham scientists say there are mixed results from research but agree that it is a common form of echophenomena - the automatic imitation of someone else’s words or actions, a trait found in Tourette’s and some other conditions such as epilepsy and the autism spectrum.

The ‘excitability’ of the primary motor cortex has been implicated as a factor and understanding this may help manage unwanted effects in patients with some of these ‘excitability’ disorders.

Even seeing the picture below will trigger some people.

ARE you a hedonist?

A lot of us are, not surprisingly, but it’s not all about sex, drugs and rock’n’roll apparently - and it may be good for your health.

According to one definition, a hedonist is someone who tries to maximise pleasure and minimise pain.

This can be as simple as savouring a good cup of coffee, playing in fallen leaves, enjoying moments of connection with friends or just cuddling the dog, according to Southern Cross University psychologist and academic Desiree Kozlowski writing in The Conversation.

Simple pleasures can boost our health and well-being, she says.

CLICK HERE for more.