With all of the recent excitement surrounding the NBA & Stanley Cup finals and the World Cup you might wonder why do millions of people spend hours every week watching sports? Most people think of it as entertainment, a way to relax or pass the time. But what if watching sports is actually doing something good for your mind, your emotions, and even your health? That’s why today’s SYSK Trending topic is A lot of people look at sports fans and wonder what all the fuss is about. Why invest so much time and emotion in a team you don’t play for and have no control over? Why let a win make your day or a loss ruin your mood? (more…)

Ever notice when you hear someone talking on the phone nearby it’s hard not to listen? You are only hearing one-side of the conversation and that can drive your brain crazy. It’s not just annoying and distracting it can actually be dangerous. ⁠https://now.uiowa.edu/news/2017/06/ui-study-explores-why-cell-phone-use-leads-distracted-driving⁠ (more…)

A great burger looks simple—but barbecue experts know there is a surprising amount of science and technique behind getting it just right. From choosing the meat to handling the patties to what happens on the grill, a few small mistakes can mean the difference between a memorable burger and a disappointing one. Source: Steve Raichlen, author of ⁠The Barbecue Bible (https://amzn.to/4bgBEcM)⁠ (more…)

Why do mosquitoes seem to love some people and completely ignore others? It isn’t your imagination. Researchers have identified several factors that make certain people especially attractive to mosquitoes—and some of them are things you have little control over. ⁠https://theweek.com/articles/462191/5-things-that-make-irresistible-mosquitoes⁠ (more…)

Have you ever bought something because it was “almost sold out” or because a sale was ending at midnight? If so, you’re not alone. Scarcity is one of the most powerful forces influencing human behavior. When something becomes difficult to get, we often value it more—even if we weren’t interested in it before. (more…)