A study conducted by scientists at University
College, London in 2000* concluded that significant brain activity
occurred when subjects viewed photos of loved ones. Four parts of
the brain were involved.
The regions showing activity
were deep in the cortex of the brain: the medial insula (which is
associated with "gut feelings") and in part of the anterior
cinguate, which is known to respond to euphoriainducing drugs.
Deeper into the striatum, two other areas, which are active when we
find experiences rewarding, were also stimulated by viewing
pictures of loved ones. Even more significant, the right prefrontal
cortex, a region where activity is heightened in depressed
patients, became inactive when the pictures were
viewed.
In 2007, a British psychologist
reported his findings when querying subjects on their mood before
and after they ate chocolate, drank wine and gazed at photos of
loved ones. Only the photos gave a noticeable lift.
All the more reason why it's
important to cherish photos of those we love. And why it's
important to keep those photos clean, fresh and clutter free. You
can't focus on the image if it's in a sea of stuff or the glass on
the frame is dusty or cracked.
One of the most asked questions
at STUFF-ication workshops is: "What do I do with all my
photos? I have boxes of them and don't feel right just throwing
them away but they are taking over." Here is what I suggest
to help get a handle on photos:
-
Select one photo of each loved one to
display. More is not better it's just more. Don't confuse your
focus with multiple images.
-
Keep the photo current. You won't be
disloyal by not keeping every school year snapshot of your
grandkids. If the loved one is deceased, pick your favorite of them
to display.
-
Get rid of yellowed or faded mats
and cracked glass. Simple floating frames go well with every decor
and they are easily updated.
-
Display your photos on one shelf or
area of honor rather than have them scattered throughout the house.
If you prefer wall frames, choose one wall vs. multiple ones. Be
sure to include a favorite photo of you in the mix.
-
Avoid using the refrigerator as a
collage board. If you must put photos there, pick just one of each
loved one and use matching magnets vs. assorted magnets from Joe's
Auto, Mack's Insurance, etc. Thin magnetic frames are also a good
choice for keeping space divided.
-
Take remaining photos and divide them
into manilla envelopes by subject. Family reunion, travel, school
days, etc. If there are LOTS of Aunt Sue or Uncle Fred give them an
individual envelope. Label the outside according to category. Place
all envelopes in a file box or tupperware bin.
-
When time permits, take out the
contents of each envelope and sort thru the photos. Keep only
photos that are special to you. Write on the back of each who is in
the photo and date if known. Tell the story of the photo if you
care to. Do this with each envelope. If you have grandkids, nieces,
or nephews; the next step is to prepare an envelope for each of
them and select photos from your collection that would have
meaning. Some day they will appreciate your effort.
- Scan photos into your computer to
save on storage space. If you don't have a scanner, take photos to
your nearest copy service where they will create a CD for you.
Label the contents.
- Due to the coating on photos they
are NOT recyclable. Keep a small amount in a folder to REuse for
craft projects, greeting cards, bookmarks, etc. If you have
vintage photos, you can donate to SCRAP in NE PDX.
Contact SCRAP.
Honor your loved ones and the healing power of your connection
by keeping your photos clean and clear. And don't forget to smile
and send love to your own shining face every time you walk by ...
it will make you and your place lighter!
*The study was
presented at the Federation of European Neuroscience Societies
meeting in Brighton, and reported in New Scientist magazine.
7/2000. Survey source Mindwise, 5/2007.
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