Following Directions | Brain Games

stop pay attention I’m going to give you
a list of tasks one at a time
simply follow my instructions starting
each new task as I say it it doesn’t
matter if you complete the task just
keep going until I tell you to start a
new one
got it here we go clap your hands
count out loud – ten put your hands on
your head look like a chicken besides
feeling a little silly right now we
probably had no problem following those
directions what was the third thing I
asked you to do think back put your
hands on your head
uh-huh remember now in case you didn’t
get that right we’re gonna give you
another chance and also see how well
these people handle stress it will be a
different set of instructions so you can
play along again and try to remember the
tasks in order ready set go
count backwards from ten wave your hands
above your head
recite the alphabet snap your fingers
now like a wolf
have your feet say the word brain three
times fast
amazing job guys one question for you
what was the fourth thing I asked you to
do
howl like a wolf no look a you go first
say brain brain brain city chimes not
quite but close no actually what about
you do you remember the fourth task
there were only eight to remember so why
do you think your brain is unable to
recall the fourth one even though we
told you the second time to remember the
tasks in order was actually recite the
alphabet by giving you rapid-fire
instructions we caused your brain to
enter a stress state releasing hormones
that actually decrease your short-term
memory
in fact the chronic release of stress
hormones can impair cells in the part of
your brain designed for learning and
memory your brain and trying to keep you
safe from harm is actually harming you