The users of the Residence and Occupational Day Center (CDO) of the Fundació Aspace Catalunya lived a unique experience with a workshop that combined neuroscience and magic, revealing how magicians become real "brain hackers".
An innovative workshop
The activity, led by two renowned neuroscientists, goes explore how the human brain responds to magic tricks. The session was structured in two parts: a theoretical introduction with practical demonstrations and a more participatory second part, where users experienced magic in the first person.
During the opening presentation, the neuroscientists explained key concepts on attention and perception while the magician performed tricks that exemplified how the brain is able to fill information gaps or focus on seemingly irrelevant details.
The practical part allowed the participants experiment with magic tricks and interact with innovative technology, how to move a robotic arm using nerve impulses. "I never thought I would be able to do magic, it had always seemed like something very complicated," explained a user of the Occupational Day Center, excited after the experience.
An inclusive and fun activity
In addition to being an educational activity, the workshop was an inclusive space where they go strengthen the links between users and professionals. "Magic is within everyone's reach, you just need to know how to hack your brain," he explained. David Bestué, magician and neuroscientist in charge of the Magic Brains workshop.
Participants highlighted the opportunity to learn about how the brain works while enjoying a fun and enriching activity. "It was a day full of surprises, doubts and, above all, laughter," said those responsible for the activity.
An experience with social values
The workshop not only provided entertainment but also served as one social inclusion tool. Users had access to a discipline often considered complex, breaking down barriers and offering a new perspective on it world of neuroscience and illusionism.
These types of activities are an example of how education and leisure can be transformed into powerful tools to generate learning, social cohesion and positive emotions. With this day, the Aspace Catalunya Foundation reaffirms its commitment to innovation and inclusion for its users.
An activity that has been carried out thanks to the Provincial Council of Barcelona and the Federation of Cerebral Palsy and the Multiple Disabilities of Catalonia (FEPCCAT)
