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  • Writer's picturePremanandhan Narayanan

Unconscious Problem Solving: Insights from Walks, Sleep, and Conversations

Do you know how and when 90% of our problems get solved.


1. When we go for a morning or evening walk we suddenly get solution for our problem and the problem get solved.


2. The whole day we break our heads to find a solution for our problem but we may not have arrived to the solution, but when we go to sleep and when we have a deep sleep, early in the morning we will get an idea that solves our problem.


3. Sometimes when we call one of our best friend and talk casually and in middle of the talk when you address your problem, your friend might throw a beautiful idea which will solve your problem.





This is how most of our problems get solved without ourselves knowing how things get solved.


The phenomenon we are describing is often referred to as the "Eureka moment" or the sudden realization of a solution to a problem. While it may seem mysterious, there are scientific explanations for why this happens.


Morning or Evening Walk: Taking a walk, particularly in a natural setting, can have several positive effects on our mental state. Physical activity releases endorphins, which can improve our mood and reduce stress levels. Being in nature also has a calming effect on our mind, allowing us to think more clearly and creatively. When we step away from the immediate environment of the problem, our mind can relax, leading to new perspectives and insights. Additionally, physical movement can stimulate neural activity and enhance cognitive function, increasing the likelihood of finding solutions to problems.


Sleep and Dreaming: Sleep plays a crucial role in problem-solving and creativity. During the various stages of sleep, our brain processes information and consolidates memories. The subconscious mind continues to work on unresolved problems, even when we are not consciously thinking about them. During deep sleep, the brain engages in a process called memory reactivation and consolidation, where it strengthens relevant neural connections related to the problem at hand. This process enhances our ability to make connections and associations between seemingly unrelated ideas, leading to novel insights upon waking up.


Conversations with Friends: Engaging in conversations with friends or trusted individuals can provide a fresh perspective on our problems. When we explain our problem to someone else, we are forced to articulate and organize our thoughts, which can help us gain clarity. Additionally, your friend may have a different set of experiences, knowledge, and perspectives, which can bring forth new ideas and solutions. They may also ask thought-provoking questions or challenge your assumptions, leading to a breakthrough in your thinking.


In all these situations, the common theme is that your mind is given an opportunity to shift its focus, relax, or gain new input, which can stimulate creative thinking and problem-solving abilities. By allowing your mind to wander or engaging in activities that promote relaxation, you create the conditions for new connections and insights to emerge, leading to solutions for your problems.


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