The Power of Daydreaming: Unlocking the Secrets of Learning and Perception

A new study from Harvard suggests that daydreaming, or "quiet wakefulness," may play a crucial role in boosting neuroplasticity and learning. Researchers tracked brain activity in mice and found that during periods of rest, the mice's thoughts would drift back to previously seen images, leading to a process called "representational drift." This process influenced which neurons fired when the image was shown again, making the patterns of neurons increasingly distinct. The study suggests that daydreaming may help the brain distinguish between similar images and consolidate learning. It aligns with previous research showing that entering a state of "quiet wakefulness" after an experience can enhance learning and memory.