This is Your Brain on Joy by Dr. Earl Henslin

I can tell you without reservation that I do not read motivational books. I find them mostly boring and a great waste of money. Unless the reader is dedicated enough to follow through with what is recommended, the time spent reading them is a waste and irrecoverable.

With that being said, "This is Your Brain on Joy," by Dr. Earl Henslin is not a motivational book. Not in the least. This is a great book that talks extensively on the brain, and how it works. It was especially educational in explaining the functioning of the brain, and its differing areas in laymen terms. While the author speculates that other professionals in his line of work will most likely chide him (and his book) for the minimal use of the correct professional names. I, for one, sincerely appreciate the simpler words and descriptions!

One of the things that I found to be quite ironic was the fact that psychiatrists and psychologists are two medical professions that do not typically observe the organ that they are treating. I found this to be most interesting and intriguing.

Once the author begins talking about the specific areas of the brain within its own chapter, at the end he provides a listing of supplements, music, aroma's, movies, and prescription medication that can help in resolving issues outlined for the specific area of the brain described.

In addition to these listed helps, the author sprinkles true-life stories that relate to the specific area of the brain. These are not only to the point, they are uplifting in that they demonstrate that the brain, while seemingly mysterious, can be "fixed" to a large degree without surgery or serious medications or even surgery. I can say honestly that I have personally tested some of the things he has outlined, and they indeed work! Specifically, when I'm feeling especially anxious or stirred up, I took some fish oil and ate some sunflower seeds (for dopamine).

Overall, great book. It took me a while because I really wanted to digest it, and lock it in. I know that I will be keeping this book close at hand as I find the advice therein to be very useful!