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Researchers locate “Christmas spirit” activity within the brain

santa hat

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen in Denmark are now identifying an area of the brain that pertains to feeling joy and nostalgia during holiday seasons. The studies were conducted using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Scientists have been relying on fMRI results since the 1990’s to pinpoint emotional and functional regions, but the latest research defines the areas even more, even linking brain activity to spirituality and recognition of facial emotions. The researchers stated, “Understanding how the Christmas spirit works as a neurological network could provide insight into an interesting are of human neuropsychology and be a powerful tool in treating aliments such as bah humbug syndrome.” The results of the recent research will be used to investigate further other seasonal disturbances, such as those that relate to other cultural holidays: Easter, Chanukah, or Diwali.