In her second research based TEDx talk, Dr. Lara Boyd explains how stress can affect our ability to make new memories and impair our ability to learn. Yet because human behaviour profoundly affects the brain, we can engage in activities that counter the negative impacts of stress. Dr. Boyd discusses her research which has revealed the powerful impact of exercise on brain health and learning. She also describes the pivotal role sleep plays in making new memories and discusses how practicing mindfulness leads to lower levels of stress. While life is stressful, we can choose behaviors that stimulate positive brain change, lower stress and enhance learning. Dr. Lara Boyd is a Professor and Wall Scholar at the University of British Columbia. She is both a Neuroscientist and Physical Therapist. At the University of British Columbia Dr. Boyd directs the Brain Behaviour Lab, which performs research that tests ideas surrounding how behaviour and brain health affect learning. Dr. Boyd was recruited to the University of British Columbia in 2006 to take a Canada Research Chair position. Since that time, recruited and trained over 75 graduate students, published more than 200 papers and been awarded over $20 million in research dollars. With her mom she has written a children’s book on the brain titled “What’s Under My Hair”, and is currently working on a book on brain health for adults. Her 2015 TEDx talk on learning and brain plasticity (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LNHBMFCzznE) has been viewed by over 30 million people. 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