The brain never sleeps, even on vacation
While the holidays are approaching, many aspire to “disconnect”. But is it really possible to put your brain on pause? According to Francis Eustache, researcher in neuropsychology and president of the scientific council of the B2V of Memoirs observatory, the answer is clear: no. “”Even at rest, our brain never sleeps “he recalls. “”Without a precise task to be accomplished, it still consumes almost 20 % of the total energy of the body, only 5 % less than when mobilized to solve a problem “.
This operation is based on what is called the “network of the default mode”, a set of active brain regions during the phases without directed action. It is in this mode that attention turns away from the outside to refocus on oneself. It is also the moment of introspection, synthesis, imagination … and sometimes of the most unbridled reverie.
Why our brain is thirsty for emptiness and slowness
In our daily life fragmented by screens, notifications and productivity pressure, it becomes difficult to spare real break time. However, our brain sorely needs it. “”The brain is not an inexhaustible machine. He needs time to break the information, consolidate memories and stimulate creativity “insists Francis Eustache.
Neurosciences affirm this: these phases of calm are fundamental to mental health, attention, memory. In summer, with its slowed down rhythm, offers a unique opportunity to agree with this time of brain breathing. You still have to know how to take it.
Stop preconceived ideas: no need to flee far or long
First myth to deconstruct: it would necessarily take long holidays to regenerate. Fake. Science shows that simple, well -made breaks may be enough to restore cognitive energy. The technique of “micro-repos”, which consists in making a few minutes of break completes several times a day, is effective provided that it lives it fully, without external solicitation.
Another false idea: to disconnect from digital would be a luxury. Here again, the facts contradict intuition. “”Our brain has not evolved to process the constant flow of information imposed on us by technologies “underlines the researcher. Hyperconnection fragments attention, alters sleep quality and increases stress. Taking the time to move away from the screens, even briefly, allows our nervous system to rebalance.
4 simple gestures for real disconnection this summer
Among the recommended concrete solutions, some hold in a few words but many effects.
- Favor sensory activities. First, stimulate the senses with physical or manual activities – walk in the great outdoors, garden, paint, tinker – mobilizes other cerebral circuits than those overexploited by screens. It is an effective and accessible means of mental regeneration.
- Give a place for boredom. Far from being a void, it becomes a fertile ground for creativity, the consolidation of memories and the birth of new ideas.
- Reduce digital interruptions By cutting the notifications helps preserve attention and savor the moment. Notifications act as real “disruptors” that divide our attention and drain our mental capacities. By deactivating these alerts, you promote a framework conducive to mental concentration and relaxation.
- Finally, Accept that disconnection is sometimes partialimperfect, but nevertheless beneficial. A few minutes of full presence may be enough to relaunch a cycle of concentration and balance.