Getting Curious
I’ve been listening to The Rest Is Science podcast (hosted by the legendary Hannah Fry and Michael Stevens) recently, and it’s done something to my brain.
I can’t quite explain it. They’re just so wonderfully, relentlessly curious about everything. Just like I used to be. And it’s infectious. I’ve found myself going back to logic puzzles and riddles, the kind I used to love as a kid. I’ve even started learning cryptic crosswords (I may regret opening the lid on that particular box… but hey). And when I get a spare minute, instead of reaching for my phone, I’ll sit with a problem for a bit. And just... have a cheeky ponder.
My brain feels more active. More present. Less scattered.
I don’t think it’s the puzzles specifically. I think it’s the shift from passively consuming whatever comes at me to actively chewing on something. And it’s not all the time either. I still go on my phone. But it’s maybe a 50% reduction. A small difference. But I can feel it.
If you’re looking for a podcast recommendation, that’s mine. Fair warning, though - it might break your mind when you find out how many possible combinations there are for ordering a deck of cards.
But then, it might make you wonderfully curious about everything.