Rediscovering Memory: The Joy of Engaging Your Brain Daily
Written on
Chapter 1: The Internet's Impact on Memory
In an age where the internet permeates nearly every aspect of our lives, our innate memories remain a sanctuary. Our brains can conjure vivid recollections triggered by sounds or scents, transporting us back to significant moments in our past. For instance, hearing Savage Garden’s "Truly Madly Deeply" can instantly remind me of a school dance in 1997, a memory I still can't shake off.
To combat the detrimental effects of constant internet reliance, my husband and I tune into a BBC 6 music segment called Craig Charles’ Time Machine every weekday at 1 pm. This show challenges us to think critically by providing clues and playing three songs from a specific year that we must identify without Googling.
This simple yet delightful game compels us to engage our brains, awakening dormant memories that technology often leads us to neglect.
> "Google is making us stupid," an assertion made by The Atlantic, resonates with me. I consciously devote ten minutes daily to this exercise, feeling my brain activate and re-engage in ways that the internet has dulled over time.
Section 1.1: The Cognitive Dilemma
The "Google Effect" refers to our diminishing need to memorize information, thanks to the vast resources available online. Why remember facts when a quick search can provide instant answers? This over-reliance on technology is eroding our cognitive abilities—our attention spans shrink, and our comprehension of complex ideas diminishes. As one author noted,
> "Once I was a scuba diver in the sea of words. Now I zip along the surface like a guy on a Jet Ski."
Technology philosopher Albert Borgmann warns that those who surrender their intellect to hyperintelligence may find themselves disconnected and disoriented. This disconnection strips conversations of depth and meaning, making it crucial to engage in activities that stimulate our brains.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Beauty of Memory Recall
The Time Machine segment revitalizes those memories, prompting me to recall significant life events tied to particular songs. Whether it’s recalling the year we moved in 1998 or the songs played at our wedding in 2009, each memory is a reminder of a time before the internet blurred my musical recollections.
Section 1.2: Music as a Memory Trigger
In the years following 2007, when my internet usage skyrocketed, my connection to music began to fade. With the advent of social media and streaming platforms like Spotify, my ability to remember songs and their significance diminished.
Streaming services have transformed our listening habits. While they provide unprecedented access to music, they also contribute to a passive consumption experience. The Guardian recently highlighted that, despite endless options, we often miss out on truly listening to what we hear.
Chapter 2: Reclaiming the Experience of Music
The first video titled "Change Your Brain: Neuroscientist Dr. Andrew Huberman | Rich Roll Podcast" delves into the neuroscience behind memory and cognition, offering insights into how we can enhance our mental faculties.
The second video, "How To Escape Your Brain's Default Mode Network | Zindel Segal and Norman Farb," discusses strategies for breaking free from habitual thought patterns and fostering cognitive engagement.
Relying solely on the internet for music experiences can lead to a disconnection from the emotional and cognitive ties we form with songs. Music is a powerful trigger for memories, and allowing algorithms to dictate our listening choices diminishes that connection.
Participating in the Time Machine segment fosters meaningful interactions and debates with my husband, making us reminisce about our pasts. For ten minutes, we engage our minds and voices, and whether we answer correctly or not, the process enriches our connection.
In this digital age, there's immense joy in stepping away from the internet. It's refreshing to engage in spontaneous debates, reminisce about our pasts, and appreciate the profound role music plays in our lives.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, it's nearly time for the show. I need to tune in and prepare for another round of memory exploration.