Evidence of conscious-like activity in the dying brain

A new study provides early evidence of a surge of activity correlated with consciousness in the dying brain.

Is there a common path to the psychedelic experience?

A study takes a closer look at the neurobiology of psychedelic experiences caused by nitrous oxide, ketamine and LSD.

Positive experiences in close relationships are associated with better physical health, new research suggests

Social relationships influence physical health, but questions remain about the nature of this connection. New research suggests that the way you feel about your close relationships may be affecting the way your body functions.

Dizzy apes provide clues on human need for mind altering experiences

Great apes deliberately spin themselves in order make themselves dizzy -- findings which could provide clues about the role of altered mental states for origins of the human mind.

Five precepts of Buddhism may be linked to lower depression risk

A new study suggests that people with high levels of neuroticism and stress may be at greater risk for depressive symptoms, but those links could be buffered for people who observe the five precepts of Buddhism -- a fundamental system of ethics for the religion's followers.

Is ayahuasca safe? New study tallies adverse events

There is a high rate of adverse physical effects and challenging psychological effects from using the plant-based psychoactive ayahuasca, though they are generally not severe, according to a new study.

Even in kindergarten, gaps seen in extracurricular activities

It doesn't take long for gaps to appear between children who participate in extracurricular activities and kids who don't, a new study found.