What happens to the brain and mind when they rest?

Our body encompasses both physical and non-physical organs, each with their own special skill-sets, and responsibilities. When we talk about human anatomy, the brain and the mind are often used interchangeably, and can be confusing for the layman. However, the two are actually distinct, yet intricately interconnected components that play crucial roles in human life, in terms of our thinking, memories (even old ones), response and overall health.


Mind and brain when at rest
Interestingly, when your mind is at rest, your brain does not 'shut down', but rather engages in the default mode network (DMN), a collection of brain regions active during introspection, memory retrieval, and planning, supporting processes like self-reflection, and creativity. Let's dive deeper...

What is The Default Mode Network (DMN)?
The DMN is a network of interconnected brain regions that become more active when the brain is not focused on a specific task or external stimuli. It includes areas like the posterior cingulate cortex, precuneus, medial prefrontal cortex, and angular gyrus.

What is the role of DMN?

The role of the DMN is varied, and includes:

Self-referential processing: The DMN plays a key role in thinking about oneself, one's experiences, and personal identity.
Memory and Experience Replay: The DMN recalls past experiences, forms new memories, and imagines future scenarios.
Social Cognition: The DMN helps us understand the thoughts, feelings, and intentions of others, while helping us deal with our own one's as well.


Creativity and Problem-Solving: When the mind is lost (due to a tragic event, or shock) the DMN can help with creative thinking and problem-solving by helping to cope with those emotions, and coming up with solutions.

Mind Wandering : The DMN is active during periods of "mind wandering" or daydreaming.

Integrating Information: The DMN can help the brain integrate information from different sources, and form a wholesome understanding of the world.

What is the brain doing while we are resting?

When we are not engaged in any activity and are/or sleeping our brain is still pretty active (though we will not know it), processing information, and maintaining essential bodily functions.

Increased blood flow
During rest, certain brain regions, particularly those in the DMN, experience increased blood flow and activity.

Energy consumption:
The DMN consumes a significant amount of energy, even more than when you are actively engaged in a task.

Importance of rest:
Rest is not just a passive state; it's an active process where the brain consolidates memories, strengthens neural connections, and prepares for future tasks.

How does sleep help?
Sleep is particularly important for brain health, as it allows the brain to process information, consolidate memories, and remove toxins.

How does sleep help?
Improved mental health: Rest helps reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function.
Enhanced memory and learning: Rest allows the brain to consolidate memories and improve learning.

Increased creativity and problem-solving: Allowing your mind to wander during rest can lead to new insights and creative solutions.

Improved overall well-being: Adequate rest is essential for physical and mental health.