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Popcorn Brain: How to Reclaim Your Focus in an Always-On World

Published October 13, 2026 at 4:45PM

By: Ross Goodwin, MD, psychiatrist at Kaiser Permanente

Between email, text messages, social media feeds, breaking news alerts, and endless to-do lists, our attention is constantly being pulled in different directions. If that sounds familiar, you may have experienced what’s being called “popcorn brain.”

While popcorn brain is not an official medical diagnosis, the term has gained popularity as a way to describe a scattered, overstimulated mental state where thoughts seem to jump from one thing to the next, making it hard to focus, relax, or stay present. With digital devices and apps being integrated into daily lives, many of these challenges stem from passive screen time and constant digital stimulation.

What is popcorn brain?

To better understand popcorn brain, think about popcorn kernels popping in a bag. One moment your attention is on a work project. The next, you’re checking a text message, scrolling through social media, responding to an email, or reading a news alert.

Popcorn brain describes what happens when the brain becomes accustomed to constant stimulation and frequent interruptions. Over time, slower-paced activities such as reading a book, completing a work task, having a meaningful conversation, or simply sitting quietly can feel more difficult.

Here are some signs you may be dealing with popcorn brain:

Struggling to stay focused on one task
Feeling compelled to check your phone frequently
Having difficulty concentrating during conversations
Feeling restless during quiet moments
Becoming anxious when disconnected from your devices
Multitasking throughout the day without feeling productive

It’s worth noting that many of these symptoms overlap with those of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD. However, “popcorn brain” is not a diagnosable condition and should not be mistaken for ADHD, which is present from childhood and results from differences in the brain’s development. If these symptoms become overwhelming or disrupt your daily activities, reach out to your mental health provider or primary care doctor for help.

The connection between popcorn brain and anxiety

For many people, popcorn brain affects more than just focus. It can also increase feelings of stress and anxiety.

When the brain is constantly reacting to notifications, messages, and information, it has fewer opportunities to rest and process experiences. Many people report feeling mentally “on” all day long, leading to chronic exhaustion and fatigue.

This cycle can create a sense of information overload, making it harder to concentrate, sleep, and fully engage with the people around us.

Tips to regain focus and be more present

The good news is that to address popcorn brain, you don’t have to give up technology entirely. The goal is to use it more intentionally. Try these tips to reduce digital distraction on your brain and strengthen your focus:

1. Silence nonessential notifications. Every alert competes for your attention. Turn off notifications that do not require immediate action.

2. Track your screen time. Many phones now provide weekly reports. Review your usage honestly and consider what healthier activities you might be replacing with scrolling.

3. Create a purpose before picking up your phone. Ask yourself what you need to do. Check the weather? Respond to a text? Read an email? Complete the task and put the phone away.
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Bell Wringer: An 1820s witch causes mayhem in Tennessee

Published October 13, 2026 at 12:45PM

Pinky Swear Productions is excited to announce the remount of the 2023 Best Musical winner of Capital Fringe Bell Wringer

Have you ever been beset by strange happenings? A weird creature in your backyard…or closet? Someone poked you, but nobody’s there? One Tennessee family sure has.

This fast-paced bluegrass musical follows the true story* of the haunting of the Bell family as they attempt to cope with the presence of a mischievous and malevolent witch. Why did she do it? Well, you’ll get an explanation. Or not. But you’ll definitely be entertained by the hijinks and hubbub of the legendary boo-hag of Red River!

Only ten shows, so act fast before she disappears to haunt another town.

Details

Where: Gunston Theater 2, 2700 S Lang St, Arlington, VA 22206

When: October 22 – 31

Thursday & Friday 7:30 PM

Saturday & Sunday 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM

Run time: 80 minutes, no intermission

Ages: Suitable for middle school & up

by Seth Alcorn & Karen Lange

Directed by Jen Jacobs

Featuring: co-writer Karen Lange, Tom Howley, Nicole Ruthmarie, Julia Rudgers, Adrian Iglesias, and Hope Gundlah

Get Tickets

*Well, local lore claims it’s true

Get Tickets

The Haunted Haunts of Arlington County

By Carolanne Korolowicz

Published October 13, 2026 at 10:45AM

This regularly scheduled sponsored column is written by Carolanne Korolowicz, Arlington-based Realtor and Arlington resident. If you would like to work with Carolanne in Northern Virginia and the greater D.C. Metro area, you can reach her directly at [email protected].

In the season of ghouls and goblins, Arlington yards transform into terrifying terraces. From 12-foot skeletons looming over county streets to plastic webs engulfing neighbors’ shrubbery, there is not a decoration missing this time of year. Though these faux-fright facades are temporary, legend says that Arlington is home to many year-round haunted locales.

Old Post Chapel, 204 Arlington Avenue, Fort Myer

Located on Ft. Myer, a location with the type of history that brews paranormal activity, The Old Post Chapel has had the most consistent report of creepy happenings. Built in 1935, the chapel has been used for church service and weddings for many service members, but the house of worship has also been the place of final honors for soldiers who have fallen.

Reports have stated that many service members have heard disembodied voices and footsteps. And it’s not just humans that get spooked, patrolling K9 units refuse to enter the building and bark at the door. Supposedly, there is a resident poltergeist— a young, grieving widow, who threw herself off the chapel’s bell tower, waiting for her love.

Arlington Hall Station, 111 S. George Mason Drive, National Guard Readiness Center

During the early 1940s, what started as an all-girls finishing school became an intelligence center decoding German and Russian code. The headquarters, an epicenter of secrets, has reported strange activity over the years. Many have reported hearing footsteps from empty rooms, but the spookiest dates back to the hall’s days as a women’s school. The story is that a student fell pregnant by a stable hand, unable to face the shame and embarrassment, she took her own life– now her phantom can be seen exiting and entering a ladies’ powder room, checking her makeup before she vanishes.

Febrey-Kincheloe House, 6030 Lee Highway, Overlee Community Pool

The ghost that haunts Overlee’s Febrey-Kincheloe House is more of the Casper-type. This friendly apparition, Margaret, was the daughter of Ernest Febrey– the builder and owner of the home – who died of tuberculosis in 1913. Many people, including construction workers, realtors, swimmers and children, have all reported to have had interaction with the outgoing ghost. Though her Victorian garb may seem out of place poolside, she is reported to just want to make new friends.

The "Old" Wakefield High School — The “Old” Wakefield High School

Wakefield High School Theater, 1325 S Dinwiddie Street

It is unknown where the Phantom of the Opera Wannabe has gone since the demolition of the old school theater in 2013, but Wakefield used to have a resident ghost that would make appearances to both students and staff. If you sat quietly in the balcony seats, the piano may start playing spontaneously, lights would begin to flicker, and equipment would move to impossible angles. The activity is rumored to be the spirit of a crewmember who fell off the catwalk to his death in the early 1960s. Supposedly, he would still hang around the catwalk reliving his final moments.

Though these are some of the most reported and popular sites for Arlington’s ghost population, it wouldn’t be shocking to hear that there are lesser known, but equally as spooky, haunted sites present in the county. Share in the comments any rumored, or first-person, accounts of paranormal activity in Arlington!

#Ask Eli

Listing of the Day: 963 N. Rochester Street, Arlington

Published October 9, 2026 at 5:45PM

963 N. Rochester Street

Renovated with comprehensive design services by HH Design, the exceptional home is well sited on a .29 acre lot, a 3/4 mile walk to the East Church Metro, and in the Cardinal, Swanson, Yorktown school pyramid. Valuable improvements made between 2021 and 2026: Andersen energy efficient windows; new kitchen with Bertazzoni induction range and direct vent range hood, two Bosch dishwashers, quartz countertops and backsplash, cabinetry with silent closet drawers and doors; three renovated bathrooms; 400 AMP electric service with no overhead wires and wired with a 50 AMP breaker for Level 2 EV charge; expansive deck, extensive landscaping and hardscape with LED lighting, sprinkler and irrigation system; fenced rear yard; custom interior and exterior millwork.

Near Madison Manor Park, bike path, restaurants and shops at Westover Village, Skate Park, and Dominion Hills Pool. Easy commute to Washington, National Airport, military, government, and business centers. Reverse commute to Tysons, Reston, Dulles Airport and Tech Corridor.

Is Arlington Prepared for a Silver Tsunami Across a Range of Services and Needs?

Published October 9, 2026 at 10:45AM

As Arlington’s population ages, is our community prepared to meet the growing range of needs that come with it?

Over the next decade, Arlington will need more than good intentions to support its growing senior population. From affordable and specialized housing to healthcare, caregiving, transportation, and opportunities to remain connected and independent, meeting these needs will require coordination across government, community organizations, healthcare providers, and the private sector.

Join Advance Arlington on October 14 for a timely discussion featuring leaders from across the local aging ecosystem:

Jason Brown, Ph.D., Visiting Fellow in Economic Studies, The Brookings Institution — Moderator and economic policy perspective

Divina Alston, Executive Director, Mary Marshall Assisted Living Residence — Specialized residential care and frontline challenges

Wendy Zenker, Executive Director, Arlington Neighborhood Village — Aging in place and grassroots volunteer networks

Kathy Cameron, Chair, Arlington County Commission on Aging — County policy, healthcare systems, and public advocacy

Michael Rafeedie, Partner, Kensington Senior Living — Senior housing development and meeting growing demand

Together, the panel will examine what Arlington is doing today, where gaps remain, and what will be needed to support older adults in the years ahead.

Whether you join us in person at Lubber Run Community Center or virtually via Zoom, this is an opportunity to hear from experts across five different parts of the aging ecosystem and better understand what Arlington’s changing demographics mean for our community.

Register today at www.advance-arlington.org and join the conversation.

Click to Register

My summer internship with All Team Exteriors was amazing

By Sponsor

Published October 8, 2026 at 12:45PM

Hi, I’m Owen Ravert. I’m from the Dale City area in Northern Virginia, and I’ve lived in the area my whole life. That’s me second from left in the photo. I grew up playing travel soccer and continued playing throughout high school. I learned how to communicate with teammates, handle challenges, accept feedback, and hold myself and others accountable. I also had the opportunity to play football for one year in high school as a kicker. I am currently a senior at James Madison University studying Business Management with a concentration in Innovation and Entrepreneurship. I am a member of the JMU Club Soccer team, where I have developed valuable skills in teamwork, accountability, leadership, and time management. I am also involved in the Society of Entrepreneurs, where I have had the opportunity to learn about different industries, hear directly from business owners and entrepreneurs, and gain a better understanding of what it takes to build and operate a successful business. These experiences have strengthened my interest in entrepreneurship and my long-term goal of owning a business.

Over the summer, I was given a great opportunity to intern with All Team Exteriors as an Executive Assistant. Throughout the internship, I was responsible for door-to-door sales while also providing strategic and operational support to the company’s executives. One of the biggest challenges I took on was going door-to-door, where I personally knocked on approximately 6,900 doors throughout the summer. This experience pushed me well outside of my comfort zone and taught me how to communicate with all different types of people, handle rejection, build relationships, and stay motivated even when things did not go as planned. Beyond sales, I was able to get firsthand experience with the different parts of running a growing business, including customer relationships, project management, estimating, insurance processes, scheduling, and finding opportunities to generate new business. I also gained a better understanding of how important organization, communication, follow-up, and attention to detail are when working with customers and managing projects from the initial conversation through completion.

What made the internship especially valuable was the amount of support I received throughout the entire experience. The owners and the rest of the team were always willing to teach me, answer questions, provide feedback, and help me improve. I was given the opportunity to take on real responsibilities while also having a team behind me that wanted to see me succeed. Being able to work closely with the owners also gave me a unique perspective on what it takes to start, operate, and grow a business. I learned that building a successful company involves much more than simply generating revenue; it requires strong leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, customer service, and the ability to make decisions and adjust when things do not go according to plan. I also learned a lot about myself, including the importance of being proactive, taking initiative, and being willing to put myself in uncomfortable situations to grow. Overall, my time at All Team Exteriors was an incredible opportunity that allowed me to develop professionally, build confidence, and gain real-world experience that has strengthened my interest in business, entrepreneurship, and eventually owning and operating a business of my own.

If you need help with roofing, windows, doors, siding, or gutters, I hope you’ll consider All Team. Give us a call anytime at (703) 705-7207, we’ll be happy to help you!

Contact All Team

Amenities: The perks that make or break a condominium

By Kamarin Kraft

Published October 8, 2026 at 10:45AM

Welcome to Kami’s Korner where we’ll take a deep dive into Arlington’s condominium market by focusing on what’s coming next. From emerging developments to shifting trends, this space will spotlight the opportunities and insights shaping the future of condo living in Arlington.

Unlike apartments, which often seem to be caught in an all-out amenities arms race, today’s condominium developers tend to be more selective. Every amenity takes up valuable, otherwise saleable space—and ultimately, owners are paying for the space and the staff to maintain it through their condo fees.

So which amenities are actually worth paying for? And which ones look great in the brochure but get forgotten after move-in?

Here’s my ranking of the amenities that matter most.

1. The Lobby

Some would argue the lobby is the most important amenity of all. I agree.

It is the front door to the community. What is the arrival experience from the street? Does it disappoint, or does it entice you to see more?

More importantly, is it aspirational? Does it make you think, “I belong here”—or, perhaps even better, “I want to belong here”?

A beautifully designed lobby, particularly one with a doorman, front desk or resident concierge, immediately communicates a certain level of service and sophistication. In my experience, mature luxury buyers especially appreciate the convenience and sense of welcome that come with a well-staffed lobby.

2. Fitness Center

For health-conscious buyers, a fitness center is one of the most appreciated amenities in the building.

The best facilities go beyond a few treadmills lined up in a room. Look for a combination of cardio and strength equipment, along with a dedicated studio for classes, stretching or personal training.

The real luxury is being able to work out without getting in your car.

3. Rooftop & Club Room

This is my personal favorite—and often where a building’s personality really comes through.

Is the space sophisticated and subdued? Casual and social? High-energy and fun? A great rooftop or club room gives residents somewhere to gather, entertain, have a drink or simply enjoy the view without having to host at home.

And let’s be honest: serious Northern Virginia adults could probably use a little more fun in their lives.

4. Guest Suite

The most underappreciated amenity—until you actually need it.

A guest suite is essentially a hotel room within your own building that residents can reserve for visiting friends and family. It gives guests their own comfortable space without requiring you to permanently dedicate a bedroom to occasional visitors.

And there comes a time when your adult children—and their college roommates—come home for the weekend and you realize everyone might be happier if they don’t have to live together 24/7.

That’s when the guest suite becomes a genius idea.

5. Pet Amenities

For many households, pets aren’t just residents—they’re family. And developers have figured this out.

Pet wash stations, grooming areas, outdoor dog runs and even little pet-spa touches are becoming increasingly popular. For some buyers, these amenities aren’t a bonus; they’re part of the decision to live in the building at all.

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#Kami's Korner

Kingsbury Chocolates Celebrates 25 Years of Craftsmanship and Community

Published October 7, 2026 at 4:45PM

For nearly 25 years, Robert Kingsbury has transformed a passion for chocolate into a business rooted in craftsmanship, creativity and connection. Founded in November 2001 with a storefront in Old Town Alexandria, Kingsbury Chocolates now operates from Arlington, where Kingsbury creates handmade confections, hosts pop-up events and participates in markets throughout Northern Virginia.

As chocolatier and owner, Kingsbury oversees every aspect of the business. From sourcing ingredients and packaging to creating confections, coordinating sales events and managing marketing, he remains deeply involved in every step of the process. That hands-on approach is reflected in chocolates crafted with careful attention to flavor, texture and quality.

One standout product is his fleur de sel caramel. Made with butter and Madagascar vanilla, dipped in couverture-grade chocolate and finished with sea salt, the caramel showcases the detail-oriented approach that defines his work. Every recipe is developed in-house. Some came together quickly, while others took months to perfect.

Kingsbury connected with Arlington’s BizLaunch program after moving to Arlington and expanding into wholesale sales for local retailers. “I found value in the wide range of classes available to small business owners, many of them offered at the Arlington Central Library,” said Kingsbury. For entrepreneurs juggling multiple responsibilities, he said, that level of support can make a significant difference.

One of Kingsbury’s favorite customer memories highlights the personal connections behind his business. “Several years ago, a father and his 9-year-old son, Mitchell, visited from Hawaii. An enthusiastic chocolate fan, Mitchell asked thoughtful questions about nearly every confection and toured Kingsbury’s kitchen. Weeks later, Kingsbury received a postcard featuring a photo from their visit and a note referring to him as “the king” of Kingsbury Chocolates. The postcard still hangs on my corkboard today,” said Kingsbury.

Arlington has become much more than a place to do business for Kingsbury. He values the community centers, libraries, trails and recreational amenities available to residents. He currently takes swimming lessons at Long Bridge Aquatics Center and plays pickleball at Walter Reed Community Center. For him, getting involved is one of the best ways to appreciate a community and all it has to offer.

Kingsbury credits his grandparents as his most influential mentors. Their guidance, kindness, work ethic and unwavering support helped shape both his personal outlook and his approach to business.

As he approaches his 25th anniversary, Kingsbury has no plans to slow down. Pop-ups and market events allow him to curate seasonal offerings, experiment with new flavor combinations and focus on the creative side of the business.

“I love what I do,” he said. “I always want to have chocolate in my life, and [to share it with] the people who enjoy the confections I create.”

For more information about BizLaunch, including information on free business resources, visit: www.bizlaunch.org.

For more information about Kingsbury Chocolates visit: www.kingsburychocolates.square.site or his Facebook, Instagram or Bluesky pages at @kingsburychocolates.

#Arlington Economic Development

Healthy never looked this chic. Lebanese. Baked. Zazzy.

Published October 7, 2026 at 12:45PM

Big function? Corporate event? Private party? Zazzy’s got you! Custom menus made YOUR way, plus fresh, from-scratch food that brings the flavor and the party!

Choose from our catering favorites or customize a menu your way.

Fresh. Generous. Flavor-forward. Zero fuss.

Catering across Arlington and the greater DC area.

Order online: https://letszazzy.com/menu/catering

For custom orders email us at:[email protected]

📸 @letszazzy

Click to order

Just Reduced Properties in Arlington: October 6, 2026

By Sponsor

Published October 7, 2026 at 10:45AM

Each week, “Just Reduced” spotlights properties in Arlington County whose prices have been cut over the previous week. The market summary is crafted by Arlington Realty, Inc. Maximize your real estate investment with the team by visiting www.arlingtonrealtyinc.com or calling 703-836-6000 today!

Please note: The properties featured here may be listed with other brokerages– but that doesn’t limit your options. Arlington Realty, Inc. is ready to represent you, arrange showings, analyze value, and negotiate the best possible terms on your behalf. We understand the neighborhoods, pricing trends and market timing — and we use that knowledge to your advantage.

As of October 5, there are 208 detached homes, 82 townhouses and 300 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 58 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:

Please note that this is solely a selection of Just Reduced properties available in Arlington County. For a complete list of properties within your target budget and specifications, contact Arlington Realty, Inc.

#Just Reduced

Listing of the Day: 220 S Fairfax Street, Alexandria

Published October 6, 2026 at 5:45PM | Updated October 8, 2026 at 4:12PM

220 S Fairfax Street

Steeped in history yet thoughtfully reimagined for modern living, this exceptional detached residence, originally built in the 1880s, seamlessly blends timeless architecture with sophisticated luxury. Following an extensive renovation and expansion completed between 2022 and 2025, every detail has been meticulously curated to honor the home’s historic character while introducing today’s finest finishes and amenities. Spanning nearly 3,200 finished square feet, the home offers four to five spacious bedrooms, three full and one half baths, and beautifully proportioned living spaces with soaring ceilings, oversized windows, and an abundance of natural light.

The striking rear addition is defined by a dramatic wall of rare floor-to-ceiling black Marvin windows and doors, creating a stunning architectural statement while seamlessly connecting the interior living spaces to the private rear courtyard. The expanded kitchen and family room serve as the heart of the home, thoughtfully designed for both everyday living and effortless entertaining. The chef’s kitchen showcases custom inset cabinetry, Honed Danby marble countertops and full-height backsplash, herringbone hardwood flooring, high-end hardware and fixtures, and a premium suite of Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, including a paneled refrigerator and dishwasher, built-in espresso/coffee maker, and wine refrigerator.

Weekends are for biscuits at Sloppy Mama’s BBQ

By Sponsor

Published October 6, 2026 at 4:45PM

Weekends are for biscuits Yeti. Buy one and get free coffee for life.

Arlington already knows Sloppy Mama’s BBQ for its wood-fired brisket. But this beloved locally owned and operated restaurant is now giving early risers — and anyone nursing a slow weekend morning — a serious reason to set the alarm.

Every Saturday and Sunday, from 8 to 11 a.m., Sloppy Mama’s BBQ is rolling out a full scratch-made buttermilk biscuit breakfast service. No shortcuts, no frozen dough, no compromises. Just the kind of biscuit that makes you stop mid-bite and reconsider every breakfast decision you’ve ever made.

The Weekend Biscuit Breakfast launched on Saturdays — and quickly made it clear that one day simply wasn’t enough. Demand was so strong that Sundays got added to the lineup, because some things are just too good to keep to one morning a week. Weekends, it turns out, are for biscuits.

The Biscuit That’s Earning Its Reputation

The team at Sloppy Mama’s BBQ reports hearing the same thing four or five times every single service: “It’s the best biscuit I’ve ever had.” That’s not a marketing line — it’s just what keeps happening.

The secret lives in the details. Sloppy Mama’s BBQ is 100% wood-fired, and that commitment to real, honest cooking carries straight through to the breakfast menu. The biscuits are made entirely from scratch using buttermilk, achieving that elusive balance of crisp exterior and cloud-soft interior that’s nearly impossible to replicate anywhere else.

What goes inside is where things get truly serious. The chicken filet. A smoked and fried chicken thigh drizzled with hot honey. The sausage — crafted in-house and seasoned with intention — is already turning heads as a standout on its own. And for the BBQ faithful who’ve long made Sloppy Mama’s BBQ brisket a weekend ritual? There’s a brisket, egg, and cheese biscuit sandwich that bridges the restaurant’s two great loves in one handheld, unforgettable bite and of course the old reliable bacon, egg, and cheese.

High Quality, Honest Prices

One of the most refreshing things about the Weekend Biscuit Breakfast isn’t just what’s on the plate — it’s what’s on the price tag. Sloppy Mama’s BBQ is committed to delivering premium, scratch-made quality at a price point that makes it easy to say yes, whether you’re fueling up before a big day or simply treating yourself to something genuinely good. Biscuit sandwiches start at $8, with add-ons and other options like biscuits and gravy or a gluten-free breakfast bowl type dish called Jane’s Addiction featuring hash browns, cheese, your choice of breakfast meat, two eggs and tomato jam

The breakfast service is built for everyone: families looking for a warm weekend tradition, serious food lovers chasing the perfect biscuit, and yes — anyone who might need a little grace and sustenance after a long Friday or Saturday night. No judgment. Just good food.

Free Coffee for Life — Seriously

Sloppy Mama’s BBQ is sweetening the weekend deal with an offer that’s hard to ignore. Right now, guests can purchase a 20 oz. Yeti tumbler branded with the Sloppy Mama’s BBQ name for $45 — and with it, they’ll receive free coffee refills for life, every time they visit.

It’s the kind of offer that pays for itself fast, especially once weekend biscuit breakfasts become a standing appointment on your calendar. Quantities on the Yetis are limited, so early interest is high and moving quickly.

Your Weekend Belongs to Biscuits

Sloppy Mama’s BBQ Weekend Biscuit Breakfast runs every Saturday and Sunday from 8 to 11 a.m. It started as a Saturday staple. The people have spoken, and now it’s a full weekend event. Whether you’re a longtime brisket devotee or a first-time visitor, the biscuits are ready — and so is the coffee.

Order here