National Crayon Collection Month: Why Color Calms the Mind

By Julia Welch I was so excited to write about this subject! I have five rescue animals, three dogs and two cats. While I’m recovering from a spinal cord injury, they have been saving my grace. When I joined The 34 Project for my recovery, I discovered that there are two dogs that are a mainstay at the gym, Daisy and Dexter. They bring me so much joy every time I go to the gym! Many other dogs visit; some are service dogs, and there is even a skunk that visits! Included at the bottom of this article are numerous pictures of the animals we have the pleasure of interacting with. I hope you enjoy them! There's a reason many dog owners say their four-legged companions are members of the family. Whether it's the enthusiastic tail wag when you walk or roll through the door, the comforting presence during difficult times, or the joyful excitement over something as simple as a walk around the block, dogs have a remarkable ability to brighten our lives. Science is beginning to explain why. Researchers have discovered that our relationships with dogs involve complex interactions between the brain, hormones, emotions, and behavior. From the release of “feel-good” chemicals to the possibility that mirror neuron systems help us connect emotionally, our canine companions may improve our mental well-being in ways we’re only beginning to understand. The human-dog bond is more than emotional. Humans have lived alongside dogs for thousands of years. During that time, dogs evolved to understand human facial expressions, body language, tone of voice, and even our emotions. Studies show that dogs can recognize when we're happy, stressed, frightened, or sad. Many owners have experienced a dog quietly resting beside them during a difficult day or responding excitedly when they celebrate good news. This emotional connection goes both ways. Researchers describe this as emotional contagion, the tendency for emotions to spread between individuals. Just as people often smile when others smile, dogs and humans frequently influence each other's emotional states. One possible explanation for this emotional connection involves mirror neurons. Mirror neurons are specialized brain cells first discovered in monkeys during the 1990s. These neurons become active not only when an individual performs an action but also when they observe someone else performing the same action. Scientists believe mirror neuron systems may contribute to empathy, learning through observation, and understanding the emotions of others. Although researchers continue to study exactly how mirror neurons function in humans, many neuroscientists believe they may play a role in why we instinctively respond to another person's smile, or even to a dog's joyful behavior. When your dog greets you with excitement, playfulness, and affection, your brain may naturally mirror some of that positive emotional state, helping lift your own mood. Mirror neurons may be only part of the story. One of the most powerful biological responses occurs through the release of oxytocin, often called the "love hormone" or "bonding hormone." Research has shown that when people make eye contact with or pet their dogs, oxytocin levels increase in both humans and dogs. Oxytocin helps promote feelings of trust, strengthen social bonds, reduce stress, increase feelings of safety, and encourage relaxation. This same hormone plays an important role in parent-child bonding, close friendships, and healthy romantic relationships. In many ways, interacting with a beloved dog activates similar biological pathways. Life is full of deadlines, responsibilities, and unexpected challenges. Dogs often provide a welcome antidote. Numerous studies have found that spending time with dogs can lower levels of cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone. Even brief interactions, such as petting a friendly dog for several minutes, have been associated with reduced stress and improved mood. Many hospitals, nursing homes, colleges, and rehabilitation centers now incorporate therapy dogs because of these calming effects. Dogs live almost entirely in the present moment. They aren't worried about tomorrow's meeting or yesterday's mistakes. They celebrate simple pleasures like a favorite toy, a walk around the neighborhood, a game of fetch, a sunny patch of grass, or spending time with their favorite person. Watching a dog experience pure joy over everyday moments often reminds us to slow down and appreciate life's simple pleasures. The benefits aren't limited to emotional health. Dog ownership has been associated with several healthy lifestyle behaviors, including Increased physical activity through daily walks, more time spent outdoors, greater social interaction with neighbors and other pet owners, more consistent daily routines, and reduced feelings of loneliness. These habits contribute to both physical and mental wellness. Perhaps one of the greatest gifts dogs offer is unconditional acceptance. Dogs don't care about your job title, appearance, income, or social status; they're simply happy you're home. For individuals coping with grief, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, disability, or major life transitions, that unwavering companionship can provide tremendous emotional comfort. While dogs aren't a substitute for professional mental health care when it's needed, they often become an important part of a person's overall support system. Dog Month is the perfect opportunity to recognize everything our canine companions do for us. You can celebrate by taking an extra walk together, trying a new enrichment activity, scheduling a wellness exam with your veterinarian, teaching a new trick, donating to a local animal shelter, volunteering with a rescue organization, or simply spending quality time together. The greatest gift your dog wants isn't an expensive toy; it's your attention. Our connection with dogs is rooted in far more than companionship. Through emotional bonding, stress reduction, oxytocin release, and the remarkable ways humans and dogs communicate, our canine friends help improve both our mental and physical well-being. Scientists continue to explore exactly how mirror neuron systems contribute to this relationship, but one thing is already clear: sharing life with a dog can enrich our lives in countless ways. So the next time your dog greets you with a wagging tail, joyful eyes, and unconditional enthusiasm, remember, you may both be experiencing a little neuroscience in action. References Berns, G. S. (2013). How Dogs Love Us: A Neuroscientist and His Adopted Dog Decode the Canine Brain. New Harvest. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). About Pets & People's Health. Handlin, L., Hydbring-Sandberg, E., Nilsson, A., Ejdebäck, M., Jansson, A., & Uvnäs-Moberg, K. (2011). Short-term interaction between dogs and their owners: Effects on oxytocin, cortisol, insulin, and heart rate. Anthrozoös, 24(3), 301–315. National Institutes of Health. (2018). The Power of Pets. Rizzolatti, G., & Craighero, L. (2004). The mirror-neuron system. Annual Review of Neuroscience, 27, 169–192. World Small Animal Veterinary Association. (2020). The Human-Animal Bond Guidelines.

Every August, families across the United States celebrate Family Fun Month, a reminder to slow down, unplug from daily distractions, and spend meaningful time with the people who matter most. While family vacations and special outings are wonderful, creating lasting memories doesn't have to be expensive or elaborate. Often, the moments children and adults remember most are the simple ones spent laughing, talking, and enjoying each other's company. In today's fast-paced world, work schedules, school activities, sports, and technology often compete for our attention. Family Fun Month serves as an opportunity to intentionally reconnect before the busy routines of fall. Research consistently shows that strong family relationships contribute to healthier, happier lives. Families who spend quality time together often experience better communication, stronger emotional bonds, increased self-esteem in children, greater resilience during stressful times, improved mental health, and a stronger sense of belonging and security. Quality time also creates opportunities for children to develop important life skills. Everyday conversations during dinner, a walk through the park, or a family game night help children build confidence, strengthen language skills, learn problem-solving, and develop empathy. For adults, spending time with loved ones can reduce stress, improve mood, and provide a sense of connection that supports overall well-being. It's more about quality, not quantity. One of the biggest misconceptions about family time is that it requires hours of planning or expensive vacations. In reality, meaningful moments often happen during ordinary activities such as cooking dinner together, playing board games, taking an evening walk, reading bedtime stories, working on a puzzle, gardening, watching the sunset, or having a picnic at a local park. The key isn't the activity, but rather being fully present. Putting away phones, turning off notifications, and giving one another undivided attention helps strengthen relationships and creates memories that last far longer than another hour spent scrolling through social media. Unplugging can help us reconnect. Technology has brought countless conveniences, but it has also created new challenges for family relationships. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, creating intentional "screen-free" times allows families to communicate more effectively and encourages stronger social and emotional development in children. Consider establishing simple traditions such as device-free dinners, family game nights, weekend outdoor adventures, evening neighborhood walks, or monthly family movie nights. These routines provide something everyone can look forward to while reinforcing healthy habits. Celebrating Family Fun Month doesn't require a large budget. Some of the best activities cost little or nothing at all. Try one of these ideas: visit a local park or nature trail, build a backyard obstacle course, fly kites on a windy afternoon, have a family talent show, create homemade pizzas together, host a scavenger hunt, camp in the backyard, visit your local library, explore a nearby museum on a free admission day, volunteer together in your community, start a family scrapbook, make homemade ice cream, watch the stars and learn about constellations, have a water balloon fight or sprinkler day, or take turns choosing everyone's favorite board game. The goal isn't about perfection; it's about participation. Family traditions create a sense of identity and belonging. Whether it's Sunday pancake breakfasts, annual camping trips, holiday baking, or Friday movie nights, traditions become the stories families tell for years to come. Children especially benefit from predictable traditions because they provide comfort, stability, and opportunities to create positive memories that often continue into adulthood. Even simple traditions like taking a family photo on the first day of school or making homemade birthday breakfasts can become cherished rituals. Every family looks different, and Family Fun Month is for everyone. Families may include parents, grandparents, siblings, foster families, adoptive families, close friends, or chosen family members. What matters most isn't who lives under the same roof; it's the love, support, and connections that people build together. Family fun can also be adapted for every age and ability. Whether it's a stroller walk with a toddler, an accessible nature trail for a family member using a wheelchair, a card game with grandparents, or a virtual game night with relatives across the country, there are countless ways to enjoy time together. Years from now, most people won't remember every toy they received, or every television show they watched. They'll remember the camping trip where it rained all weekend, the cookies everyone burned together, the family road trip filled with singing, or the evening spent laughing around the dinner table. These shared experiences help shape who we are and remind us that life's greatest moments are often the simplest. Family Fun Month is more than another observance on the calendar; it's a reminder that strong relationships are built one moment at a time. Whether it's a weekend adventure or fifteen uninterrupted minutes before bedtime, spending quality time together strengthens relationships, improves emotional well-being, and creates memories that last a lifetime. This August, challenge your family to put away the devices, embrace the simple moments, and make time for what matters most—each other.  References American Academy of Pediatrics (2025), Family Media Plan. American Psychological Association (2023), Building strong family relationships and resilience. National Day Calendar (2026), Family Fun Month. National Institutes of Health (2018) The Power of Social Connection. Awareness Days. (2026), Family Fun Month

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Feel like your child needs a little more structure this summer? Try Dianne’s simple 3-step approach to prevent the “summer slide” and keep learning moving forward—without the overwhelm. 

Believe it or not, breaks from formal schooling actually support learning! Time away gives the brain a chance to process and store information—moving it from short-term memory into long-term retention. In many ways, rest is productive ! Having a dedicated break period also supports mental health by allowing space for emotional regulation and helping reduce stress and anxiety. When students return from a true break, they’re often more refreshed, focused, and ready to learn.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. While PTSD is often associated with military combat veterans, it can affect anyone who has experienced trauma, including survivors of accidents, natural disasters, violence, abuse, serious illness, or the sudden loss of a loved one. It is normal to experience fear, anxiety, or emotional distress following a traumatic event. For many people, these feelings gradually improve over time. However, when symptoms persist for more than a month and begin interfering with daily life, relationships, work, or overall well-being, PTSD may be present. Common symptoms of PTSD include intrusive memories, flashbacks, or nightmares related to traumatic events, avoidance of people, places, or situations that trigger memories of the trauma, negative changes in mood, thoughts, or increased anxiety, irritability, hypervigilance, or difficulty sleeping. PTSD affects each person differently. Some individuals experience symptoms immediately after a traumatic event, while others may not develop symptoms until months or even years later. The condition can impact physical health as well, contributing to fatigue, headaches, chronic stress, and other health concerns. One of the most important things to understand about PTSD is that it is not a sign of weakness. PTSD is a recognized medical condition that can affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and professions. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not failure. The good news is that effective treatments are available. Mental health professionals often use evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help individuals process trauma and reduce symptoms. Support groups, healthy lifestyle habits, exercise, stress-management techniques, and strong social connections can also play an important role in recovery. Raising awareness about PTSD helps reduce stigma and encourages those who are struggling to seek support. By understanding the signs and symptoms, we can create more compassionate communities where people feel safe asking for help. Recovery is possible. With proper treatment, support, and understanding, many individuals living with PTSD go on to lead healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives. Brain Builder Pros and Redline Exercise Rx have been providing treatment for TBI's and neurological injuries for twenty-five years. Please get in touch with us if you have any questions or if we can be of assistance to you in any way. References National Institute of Mental Health (2025) Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, National Center for PTSD (2025). PTSD Basics. American Psychiatric Association (2025). What Is PTSD? Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) (2025). PTSD and Trauma. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, National Center for PTSD (2025) Overview of Psychotherapy for PTSD.

 June is National Safety Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about preventing injuries at work, at home, and during recreational activities. While safety should be a year-round priority, this month serves as an important reminder that many injuries are preventable with the right precautions. For athletes and active individuals, one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of serious injury is by using proper protective equipment. Whether you're riding a bicycle, skateboarding, participating in contact sports, or enjoying outdoor recreation, wearing a properly fitted helmet can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries. Safety experts consistently emphasize that helmets are one of the most effective pieces of protective equipment available for preventing serious brain injuries during sports and recreational activities. Falls are another leading cause of injuries across all age groups. Many falls occur during sports, exercise, or recreational activities and can result in sprains, fractures, concussions, and other serious injuries. Maintaining awareness of your surroundings, using proper equipment, keeping play areas free of hazards, and following safety guidelines can greatly reduce these risks. Falls remain one of the most common causes of preventable injuries, making fall prevention an important focus of National Safety Month. Parents, coaches, and athletes can further improve safety by ensuring equipment fits properly, staying hydrated, warming up before activity, and encouraging players to speak up about pain or injuries rather than trying to "play through" them. Creating A culture of safety helps keep athletes healthy, active, and participating in the activities they enjoy. Safety is an essential part of every activity. By combining proper training, appropriate protective gear, and awareness of potential hazards, participants can reduce their risk of injury while maximizing fun and performance. This National Safety Month, take a moment to evaluate your own safety habits. A helmet, proper equipment, and a little extra awareness can make all the difference. Brain Builder Pros and Redline Exercise Rx have been providing treatment for TBI's and neurological injuries for twenty-five years. Please get in touch with us if you have any questions or if we can be of assistance to you in any way. References DEFY Neuro Rehab; National Safety Council (2026) National Safety Month; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (2025). Safety Guidelines: Helmets (HEADS UP Program) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (2025). Preventing Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2025). Pedestrian, Bicycle, and Motorcycle Safety: Bicycle Safety. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (2025). Youth Sports Concussion Training. American College of Surgeons (2023); Bicycle Safety and the Promotion of Bicycle Helmet Use.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a significant public health concern and a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. A TBI occurs when an external force disrupts normal brain function, often resulting from a blow, jolt, or penetrating injury to the head. The severity of a TBI can range from mild concussions to severe injuries that cause permanent neurological impairment. TBIs affect individuals of all ages and can have profound physical, cognitive, emotional, and social consequences. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines a traumatic brain injury as an injury that affects how the brain works. TBIs can occur from falls, motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, assaults, military combat exposure, or any event that causes the brain to move violently within the skull. TBIs are commonly categorized into three levels: A mild TBI may involve a brief alteration of consciousness, confusion, dizziness, headache, memory problems, or balance disturbances. Although many individuals recover completely, some experience persistent symptoms known as post-concussion syndrome. Moderate injuries involve longer periods of unconsciousness and more significant neurological symptoms. Recovery often requires extensive rehabilitation and ongoing medical management. Severe TBIs can result in prolonged unconsciousness, coma, permanent disability, or death. These injuries often require intensive medical intervention and long-term support. TBI remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. According to the CDC, more than 69,000 TBI-related deaths occurred in 2021, averaging approximately 190 deaths per day. Falls are the leading cause of TBI-related hospitalizations, particularly among older adults, while motor vehicle crashes, assaults, and firearm-related injuries are also significant contributors. Certain populations are at increased risk: older adults, young children, athletes participating in contact sports, military personnel and veterans, individuals with previous TBIs and people taking anticoagulant medications (blood thinners). Clinical symptoms may vary depending on injury severity and the area of the brain affected. Physical symptoms can include headache, dizziness, balance impairments, nausea and vomiting, visual disturbances, sensitivity to light, noise, and fatigue. Cognitive symptoms may include memory deficits, reduced concentration, slowed information processing, impaired judgment, and executive function difficulties. Emotional and behavioral symptoms can include anxiety, depression, irritability, emotional instability, personality changes, and social withdrawal. Brain injury occurs through both primary and secondary mechanisms. Primary injury occurs at the moment of impact and includes skull fractures, brain contusions, diffuse axonal injury, and intracranial hemorrhage. Secondary injury develops hours to days after the initial trauma and may involve cerebral edema, inflammation, reduced cerebral blood flow, increased intracranial pressure, and metabolic dysfunction. These secondary processes often contribute significantly to long-term neurological deficits. Neuroplasticity and recovery after TBI are largely dependent on the brains ability to reorganize and form new neural connections. Neuroplasticity allows surviving brain regions to compensate for damaged areas through structural and functional adaptation. Research demonstrates that targeted rehabilitation can enhance neuroplastic changes and improve outcomes. Factors influencing recovery include age, injury severity, pre- existing health conditions, access to rehabilitation, family and social support and psychological well-being. Rehabilitation following a TBI is a critical component of recovery and often requires an interdisciplinary approach. Physical Therapists address mobility impairments, balance deficits, strength limitations and endurance challenges. Occupational therapy focuses on activities of daily living, self-care skills, community participation and adaptive equipment training. Speech-language pathologists help individuals improve communication skills, cognitive-linguistic abilities, and swallowing function. Neuropsychologists address memory impairments, attention deficits, executive dysfunction and emotional adjustment. Comprehensive rehabilitation programs have been shown to improve functional independence and quality of life. The Long-Term Consequences of a TBI are increasingly recognized as a chronic health condition rather than a single event. Individuals may experience long-term complications such as chronic headaches, fatigue, cognitive decline, sleep disturbances, depression and anxiety, increased risk of seizures, reduced employment opportunities, and social isolation. Research indicates that many individuals with moderate-to-severe TBI continue to experience disability years after injury. Some require assistance with daily activities, while others may need lifelong support services. Emerging directions in TBI rehabilitation science are expanding treatment possibilities. Emerging approaches include virtual reality-based therapy, robotics-assisted rehabilitation, brain-computer interfaces, tele-rehabilitation, and advanced neuroimaging-guided interventions. These innovations aim to improve accessibility and optimize recovery outcomes through individualized treatment strategies. In Conclusion, traumatic brain injury is a complex neurological condition with far- reaching physical, cognitive, emotional, and social consequences. Although recovery varies considerably among individuals, advances in acute medical care, rehabilitation science, and neuroplasticity research have improved outcomes for many survivors. Early diagnosis, comprehensive rehabilitation, and long-term support remain essential for maximizing functional recovery and quality of life following TBI. Brain Builder Pros and Redline Exercise Rx have been providing treatment for TBI's and neurological injuries for twenty-five years. Please contact us if you have any questions or if we can be of assistance to you in any way. References Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Traumatic Brain Injury & Concussion, 2025. Facts About TBI, 2025.National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke; Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Symptoms of Mild TBI and Concussion, 2025. Matney C, et al. The Scope and Burden of Traumatic Brain Injury; National Academies Press, 2022. Matney C, et al. Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care Needs After Traumatic Brain Injury; National Academies Press, 2022. Su YRS, et al. Neuroplasticity After Traumatic Brain Injury; National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2016. Johns Hopkins Medicine.; Rehabilitation After Traumatic Brain Injury. CDC. Recovery from a Moderate or Severe TBI, 2025. Shen Y, et al. A Comprehensive Review of Rehabilitation Approaches for Traumatic Brain Injury; 2025.

Understanding Language Loss After Brain Injury