Natalie Hanson Left Brain, Right Brain
As we observe both of our children in their Brain Balance programs, we continue to be curious about the emerging research on the brain. Mercedes-Benz just produced a visually compelling advertisement which I think does a beautiful job representing the differences between the left and right sides of the brain.
You can click on the image to see a larger version, if you like, and you can see other versions of the imagery on AdGoodness.
Some time ago there was a test circulating on Facebook, which purports to tell people which side of their brain is dominant. I thought it was just another marketing agency gimmick until I realized that it was a creative preview for a new learning game called Lumosity which is intended to “challenge your brain with scientifically-designed training”. I’m not in a position to judge the value of the training, but the test was fun and generated a lot of discussion in our household and with friends who have kids on the spectrum.
You can take it yourself if you want. Here are my results:
I was a little surprised to be so evenly balanced, actually. But the reality is that I have spent most of my career in work environments (banking, IT, and engineering in a management consultancy) that privilege the left side of the brain. I think that’s why I’m so drawn to the disciplines of Anthropology and User Experience – they bring a perspective to environments that are otherwise missing for me.
We know that the brains of our children are incredibly neuroplastic, but I wonder if (as adults) we can continue to shape our way of looking at and responding to the world. I sure hope so – I want to do more to exercise the right as my life continues to unfold!
Natalie Hanson 
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