Everyday Decoded

Neuroscience made useful, one everyday question at a time

Much of my work is about creating clear, practical tools—streamlined down to their essence—so you can take action right away, confident they’re built on solid science.

This blog is where I let things be a little messier. It’s where my curiosity wanders, I connect dots across science and life, and I explore questions that don’t always have quick answers. Sometimes those reflections grow into the workshops, courses, and tools I share in my business. Sometimes they just stay as thoughtful detours worth writing down.

Here, you’ll find the behind-the-scenes thinking that fuels my programs—and the joy that comes from following the wandering path.

I write about stress, seasons, productivity, nutrition, parenting, and more. If I haven’t written about something you care about yet, please reach out! I love answering questions.

The Stress Relief of Cuteness
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The Stress Relief of Cuteness

Cute images, like baby animals, can actually reduce stress, improve memory and foster a sense of kama muta. So even while there are plenty of stresses brought on by the changing season, the cuteness factor of spring might actually offer us some stress relief!

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Brain Awareness Week
Parenting, Play, Education Catherine Franssen Parenting, Play, Education Catherine Franssen

Brain Awareness Week

Brain Awareness Week is an international campaign to raise public awareness of the benefits and breakthroughs in brain research. Beyond the focused week, resources are available year-round to help you engage the brain whenever it suits best!

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The Senses of Communication
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The Senses of Communication

Whether good or bad, there’s something different about meeting someone IRL versus digitally. It turns out that our senses work together to allow us to connect with others and collect information in ways we aren’t even conscious of.

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Everyday STEM for the Family!
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Everyday STEM for the Family!

To kick off this holiday week at home with family, I’m reposting an article I wrote two years ago with loads of ideas on how we can integrate STEM learning into our daily activities to supplement kids’ education. Check it out!

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The Soothing Neuroscience of Coloring Swear Words
Play, Coping Strategies Catherine Franssen Play, Coping Strategies Catherine Franssen

The Soothing Neuroscience of Coloring Swear Words

Sitting at the kids table this holiday season? You might find yourself spending some time coloring… and you might find it surprisingly soothing! I wrote this piece about the neuroscience behind the adult coloring book fad back in 2016. And yes, I definitely referred to those that include swear words! Hey, whether you’re stressed out or overexcited, you might find yourself using a few choice words this holiday season. Grab a crayon and settle down a bit!

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