Our research team is pleased to share a recent National Geographic feature highlighting the work of our research center. This interview with Dezső Németh delves into our groundbreaking studies regarding “mind wandering” and the phenomenon of local sleep, where specific regions of the brain rest even while we are awake. Our findings challenge the traditional view that mind wandering is purely a distraction to be avoided. While focus is necessary for memorizing facts, our research suggests that mind wandering is actually essential for statistical learning, which is how we acquire complex new skills like playing an instrument or mastering a new language. By uncovering how these “offline” moments help the brain identify patterns, we are redefining the understanding of cognitive efficiency. We invite you to explore the full article to learn more about how our center is pushing the boundaries of neuroscience.
Media coverage by National Geographic
