Why Your Brain Needs Novelty

Dear Friends,

Last week, I took a different walking route through my neighborhood. Same sidewalks, same sky—but something about the slight change lit me up inside.

I noticed new blooms on the trees. Different cracks in the sidewalk. Birds singing different songs. It felt fresh. Alive.

Turns out, there’s real science behind that feeling. According to the National Institutes of Health, novel experiences activate dopamine-releasing neurons in the brain, particularly in areas tied to memory and motivation. (Read more here)

Even small shifts—like changing your environment or trying something new—can increase focus, elevate your mood, and spark creativity.
The best part? You don’t need a huge life overhaul to feel that shift.

Sometimes, all it takes is a new path home.