As summer approaches, millions of French people are slowing down to finally give themselves some time. But what is really going on in our heads when we disconnect? Do we risk losing information or, on the contrary, does our brain take the opportunity to regenerate and consolidate our memories? In a publication from June 2026, the B2V Observatory of Memories disentangles the truth from the falsehood on the effects of the summer break.
The “default mode”: when doing nothing makes the brain work
Contrary to popular belief, the brain never completely rests. Even lying down with your eyes closed, it still consumes almost 20% of the body’s total energy, which is only 5% less than when solving a problem.
This phenomenon is explained by the activation of the default mode network. This set of brain regions turns on precisely when we have no task to accomplish. It is the mode of introspection, synthesis and creativity. By letting your mind wander, your brain activates to project, imagine and connect knowledge and memories together. This process is essential for building our identity and our episodic memory.
Thanks to the summer slowdown, the brain benefits from ideal conditions to sort and consolidate the achievements of the past year. By cutting off the daily flow of information, we allow this network to carry out integration work that is often hampered the rest of the year by cognitive overload.
Quality rather than quantity: the keys to good disconnection
To do good in his memory, it is not necessary to go far and for a long time. According to the B2V Memories Observatory, duration is not the decisive factor: it is the quality of the disconnection that counts. Regular short breaks to completely disconnect, several times a day, are particularly effective. A simple hike, a manual activity or letting your mind wander in transport is enough to activate the default mode.
Conversely, hyperconnection is a formidable enemy for our cognitive abilities. Staying glued to your smartphone increases stress, fragments attention and disrupts sleep. Our brains are not wired to process the constant flow of digital technologies. When notifications interrupt this famous default mode, they simply prevent the consolidation of memories.
3 simple reflexes to boost your memory this summer
To optimize the benefits of vacation, the Observatory’s experts recommend adopting three habits:
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Activate the senses rather than screens: Choose walking in nature, gardening, DIY or painting. These activities stimulate motor skills and offer a complete sensory experience conducive to mental calm.
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Allow yourself to wander: Don’t try to make money or “optimize” your vacation. Looking at the sea and allowing yourself moments without objectives allow the brain to prepare for the return to school in depth.
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Turn off notifications: Even partial disconnection is beneficial. Avoiding digital interruptions provides a valuable opportunity to step back, clarify thoughts, and make important decisions easier.