Neurophysiologist Vyacheslav Dubynin explains how clothing helps people cope with stress

How clothing influences our emotions, motivation and even the course of our lives was the focus of a discussion led by neurophysiologist Vyacheslav Dubynin, Professor at the Faculty of Biology of Lomonosov Moscow State University and Doctor of Biological Sciences, at the National Centre RUSSIA. The session, entitled "The Neurophysiology of Clothing", formed part of the educational programme of the III All-Russian Wedding Festival "Russia. Uniting Hearts".

According to the scientist, clothing can do more than reflect our emotional state — it can also shape it, sometimes for years to come. This is especially evident in childhood. "When a child puts on a cosmonaut's suit or the costume of Doctor Aybolit, they are, in essence, imagining their future. By putting on those clothes, we help the brain shape future patterns of behaviour. At moments of choice, clothing becomes a telescope through which we glimpse our future."

Vyacheslav Dubynin also stressed that clothing serves an important psychological self-care function, helping people either enter the right frame of mind for work or, conversely, relieve stress. According to the expert, a favourite "lucky" shirt, dress or accessory can genuinely act as an anchor for the nervous system, helping to reduce anxiety and improve concentration.

Costume designer Viktoria Sevryukova also joined the discussion on the influence of clothing. Together, the experts explored how one's personal appearance helps create emotional moments that remain with people throughout their lives and continue to support them in the future.