Jolted By Light - Nurturing the Positive Effects of Inspiration on our Brains  Naama Kostiner (Haifa, Israel)   A1

What does it mean to feel inspired? The origin of the word inspiration comes from Latin and literally means "To breathe into". In ancient traditions, followers believed that inspiration derived from the gods. As the gods 'breathe/blow their light and wisdom onto us' we embody part of their energy and can experience sudden bursts of creativity and eureka moments. For centuries, the role of inspiration has been described as fundamental in fueling creative processes. It can transcend and broaden one's vision onto exploring new possibilities beyond convention. Albert Einstein claimed inspiration to be 'the only real valuable thing', Steve Jobs called it 'more powerful than intellect'. Yet in a goal oriented culture, where tasks are usually preplanned and measured, there seems to be less room for creative thinking. The sudden, spontaneous and unpredictable nature of inspiration, may be somewhat overlooked. Unfortunately, studies have shown that this results in increasing level of stress and depression amongst individuals. While experiencing inspiration, the individual's attention control network in the brain, reduces its activation level. (This network works well with highly concentrated, well-planned chores. Yet on the long run, when over exceeded, could cause harmful levels of stress to arise). Once this network lowers its activity level, the imagination and attentional flexibility networks can collide. This equilibrium opens a doorway for inspiration to appear while also extracting dopamine, which positively effects our mood and behavior and could even elevate us to altered states of consciousness. A question therefore arises, could inspiration be artificially activated, modified or slipped into our daily routine? Recent studies show that there is a hidden element that can endorse the areas in the brain responsible for the appearance of inspiration. This element is specifically linked to engagement in creative environments and tasks. In this talk I will be displaying recent data from interviews I have been conducting with artists regarding their creative processes, coping mechanisms and mood changes. I will also be sharing my personal outlook and experiences both as an artist and as a clinician working with clients suffering from depression. In this talk we will leap into the notion of Inspiration and creative ways to induce it. I will also share my experience conducting interviews with artists regarding their creative processes, from both a professional perspective and a personal outlook as an artist. About the presenter: Naama M. Kostiner is clinical psychotherapist, mentor speaker and healer. Her professional journey commenced over twenty ago, specializing in mental health practice and addiction counselling. Throughout the years, her vocation has expanded with a growing interest in the fields of consciousness and multi-disciplinary counseling. Naama has immersed herself in advanced training of holistic therapies, including years spent in Mexico and The Amazon, learning and researching ancient traditional healing methods. Naama's approach is weaved with colorful assets. She also feels deeply inspired by creative process and art, and is a relentless artisan and creative director. Naama is a fifth time presenter at the Science of Consciousness conference.