Why ‘Gut Feelings’ Matter

In Today's Email:

• Why ‘Gut Feelings’ Matter More Than You Think: The Gut-Brain Connection Explained…

• Crystal Of The Day: See below…

• Thought of the day: Discover below...

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TODAY'S LEARNING
Why ‘Gut Feelings’ Matter More Than You Think: The Gut-Brain Connection Explained

Ever get that fluttery feeling in your stomach when you’re anxious—or a warm, contented glow when you’re happy? It’s not just in your head! Scientists often call the gut our “second brain,” and for good reason: your digestive tract and your brain constantly talk to each other through a vast network of nerves and chemical signals.

At the heart of this two-way chatter is the vagus nerve, like a telephone line running between your brain and your gut. When your gut flora (those billions of friendly bacteria living in your intestines) are healthy and balanced, they help produce mood-regulating neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. A happy belly can mean a happier you!

But what about those hunches and “gut feelings”? While they might sound mystical, there’s some science behind them. Because of the gut-brain connection, emotions like stress or excitement can trigger changes in your stomach—leading to everything from butterflies to an upset stomach. In turn, an uneasy gut can send signals to the brain that affect how we think and feel, sometimes fueling anxiety or low mood.

So, how can you keep your gut (and therefore your mind) in tip-top shape? Easy swaps like incorporating more fiber-rich fruits and veggies, fermented foods (think yogurt or kimchi), and prebiotics/probiotics can help maintain a thriving gut microbiome. Don’t forget to sprinkle in stress-management practices, too—like deep breathing or a relaxing walk. When you take care of your gut, you’re not just aiming for a flatter tummy—you’re investing in a clearer, calmer mindset.

Next time you get a gut feeling, pay attention! It might just be your “second brain” trying to tell you something important.

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CRYSTAL OF THE DAY

POSITIVE NEWS OF THE DAY

All Chicago City Buildings Now Run on Renewable Energy

In a laudable civic accomplishment, all 411 buildings owned and operated by the City of Chicago now either run on renewable energy or offset their emissions through financing renewables across the country.

The news helped ring in the new year and marks three years since the city signed a major agreement to receive solar power from the largest solar farm east of the Mississippi.

Former Chicago mayor Lori Lightfoot signed an agreement to buy power from Constellation, an electricity supplier, in 2022.

Constellation Energy now furnishes the supply from the 593-megawatt Double Black Diamond solar farm in Sangamon and Morgan counties, about 30 miles from Springfield, which has been under construction since the same year.

Owned and developed by Swift Current Energy, the farm will deliver about 70% of the municipal buildings’ total electricity needs.

“Every Chicagoan interacts with a city-owned building, whether the cultural center, City Hall, Harold Washington Library, O’Hare and Midway (international airports) or your local library. To be able to achieve this milestone on behalf of city residents is exciting,” Angela Tovar, chief sustainability officer for Chicago, told the Chicago Tribune.

The move will reduce the city’s carbon emissions by around 290,000 metric tons—or around the same effect as taking 62,000 vehicles off the roads, according to Grist.org.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY

Small circle. Private life. Clear mind. Happy soul.

MEME