The Default Mode Network (DMN) is a group of brain areas that activate when we're not focusing on anything specific, like during daydreaming or mind-wandering. Discovered by accident in 2001, the DMN shows that our brains are busy even at rest, helping us think about ourselves, imagine the future, remember the past, and generate new ideas. This network underscores the importance of rest for creativity, self-understanding, and mental sharpness. Embracing moments of silence can boost our well-being, creativity, and resilience, enhancing both personal and professional life. Promoting mental health policies that value "silence" can improve well-being in our communities and workplaces.
Sign Language Interpreter: Lizza Zeviar Orell has always been passionate about one thing: finding out what is good in our life and making that even better. He is well aware about all the weaknesses we might have and does not advocate to deny them. However, improving what we are good at is so much more benefiting. This is certainly one reason Neurologists working in a pharmaceutical company are involved in activities to promote our well-being so that we avoid illnesses and mental disorders. His mission is to build a community on mental health, where knowledge is shared about how we can use our brain in an optimal way to excel at work and in our private lives. Living in Karlsruhe, Germany, he sees himself as a “world citizen”, where he feels at home wherever there are people that share his values. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
More from TED
- 13:38What I learned from automating everything | Shauna Sprague | TEDxNashvilleIn this talk, Shauna Sprague explores how to harness the power of AI to automate everyday tasks, freeing up time and mental energy for what truly matters. By addressing common fears of change and failure, Shauna empowers the audience to embrace AI as a tool for transformation, showing that the path to greater efficiency and innovation is within everyone's reach. With a profound understanding of artificial intelligence and a keen eye for innovation, Shauna Sprague stands out as a visionary in the AI landscape. Combining technical expertise with strategic foresight, Shauna has consistently delivered cutting-edge AI solutions that drive significant business impact. With a focus on creating automation systems that enhance efficiency and effectiveness, Shauna has successfully led numerous IT projects from concept to completion. Their ability to blend theoretical knowledge with practical application allows them to tackle complex challenges head-on, making Shauna an invaluable asset in any forward-thinking organization. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 17:44The path towards a more inclusive future begins with us | Loretta Fernando-Smith | TEDxFrankfurtLoretta invites us to envision a world where respect and dignity are universal, and differences are celebrated as vital to our society. Through personal anecdotes and reflections on childhood experiences, they emphasize that the journey toward inclusivity begins in our everyday interactions, encouraging us to engage in open, honest conversations about identity and belonging. By fostering curiosity and understanding in ourselves and the next generation, we can collectively create a more compassionate and equitable world. Join us in this transformative journey! Loretta is an educator with more than 20 years of experience. She grew up between cultures, moving several times during her childhood growing up as a refugee and immigrant. She is also the mother of two multi-racial,Cross Culture Kids. Her experiences of straddling several cultures as a child, adult, parent and educator have made her aware of how people negotiate belonging in different spaces. This tension drives her curiosity, inquiry and research into belonging. Loretta is an Associate Principal and Curriculum Coordinator at Frankfurt International School, Wiesbaden. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 17:44The path towards a more inclusive future begins with us ASL | Loretta Fernando-Smith | TEDxFrankfurtLoretta invites us to envision a world where respect and dignity are universal, and differences are celebrated as vital to our society. Through personal anecdotes and reflections on childhood experiences, they emphasize that the journey toward inclusivity begins in our everyday interactions, encouraging us to engage in open, honest conversations about identity and belonging. By fostering curiosity and understanding in ourselves and the next generation, we can collectively create a more compassionate and equitable world. Join us in this transformative journey! Sign Language Interpreter: Day Helsinger-Nixon Loretta is an educator with more than 20 years of experience. She grew up between cultures, moving several times during her childhood growing up as a refugee and immigrant. She is also the mother of two multi-racial,Cross Culture Kids. Her experiences of straddling several cultures as a child, adult, parent and educator have made her aware of how people negotiate belonging in different spaces. This tension drives her curiosity, inquiry and research into belonging. Loretta is an Associate Principal and Curriculum Coordinator at Frankfurt International School, Wiesbaden. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 12:52Being a Girl is Not a Crime (with ASL) | Saba Hussein | TEDxFrankfurtUncover the path to global change by standing against gender-based violence and racism. This talk will empower you to become a voice for the voiceless, challenging the injustices that continue to oppress girls and women. Learn how humanity and humility can drive action against female genital mutilation (FGM) and other forms of violence. Explore the connection between your inner world and your ability to impact the world around you. Together, let’s rise up—because being a woman is not a crime. Sign Language Interpreter: Lissa Zeviar Saba Hussein is an activist, educator, and social worker. She is the founder of “Diaspora’s Voice,” a platform dedicated to anti-racism, women’s empowerment, and social change. Born and raised in Fulda, Germany, Saba is committed to creating a global impact, starting from her hometown. She has taught in Kuwait and travelled extensively to understand the needs of various cultures and countries. Saba has mentored orphaned girls in Somalia and Kenya, focusing on making education accessible and fighting against FGM. She is a justice advocate against racism, bullying, Islamophobia, and gender-based violence. For her, empowerment means nurturing both oneself and others. She also finds art in words through her poetry slams, addressing injustice and inspiring change.She initiated a petition in Hesse to revise school curricula on racism and colonial history, emphasising that change begins with representation and education—the narrative being shared is crucial. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 10:10Democratizing the beauty industry through social media | Belle Rodolfo | TEDxUPV WomenBelle, a public figure and content creator, explores beauty’s digital evolution. She challenged traditional media by letting real women, not editors, define beauty. As social media reshaped industry power, she embraced the shift, championing diversity and authenticity. Her talk urges us to embrace change and redefine beauty together. Belle Rodolfo is a creative professional with extensive experience in the beauty and publishing industries. She is the former Beauty and Social Media Editor at L'Officiel Philippines, where she manages the beauty department and fosters relationships with beauty brands. Belle oversees both print and digital beauty stories, coordinating editorial shoots and brand campaigns. Her role extends to content strategy for social media, ensuring a cohesive narrative for both cover stories and collaborations.Before joining L'Officiel, Belle held key positions in notable beauty companies. She worked as Senior Copy for Sephora USA and led product development at Sunnies Face, where she managed everything from ideation to production. Her expertise also includes creating content for luxury brands like Makeup For Ever and Benefit Cosmetics during her tenure at Luxasia Philippines. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 10:55Harmonize to Energize | Marja Stratbrücker | TEDxFrankfurtMarja guides a brief sound relaxation session, creating a genuine pause amid the high energy of the event. This session enhances focus, supports lasting integration of content and reduces stress, allowing participants’ nervous systems to reset. Marja brings her two greatest passions – nature and the healing power of sound – into her work, designing transformative experiences under her guiding motto: “From mental overload to inner balance”. Marja is a resilience expert dedicated to bringing joy and balance to the corporate world. With over 13 years of event management experience, she shifted her focus during the pandemic to helping others find inner stability and strength. Through her company, STEP AHEAD, Marja combines her passions for nature and sound healing to create transformative experiences that guide leaders and teams from mental overload to inner harmony. Her work—ranging from keynotes and workshops to sound healing and nature-based coaching—empowers individuals to thrive in times of change, fostering clarity, resilience, and joy. Marja’s mission is to help others stay one STEP AHEAD, ensuring balance and well-being are at the core of success. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
