It is quite hard to learn new information since the brain has to replace the existing ones. This process takes a lot of effort and therefore, a person feels it difficult to quickly learn new things. The ability to take in fresh information is affected by a problem called ‘proactive interference.’ Many researchers have pointed out the fact that this phenomenon is negated with memory improvement techniques such as mindfulness. These studies have shown a strong association between mindfulness & working memory.
The enigma of learning
Before the relationship between memory and mindfulness is established, it is important to know how the brain acquires new information.
The ability to learn and process fresh data is influenced by various factors. For example, when a kid is given two words—red water and green sky—there are a lot of elements at play.
At the base level, the kid’s attention will falter due to noise or restlessness. However, a kids brain trainer knows other factors that affect a person’s learning ability. The previous knowledge has power over new information and therefore, it hinders the entry of fresh data at its face value.
The person has always associated the blue colour with the sky. So, it becomes a hurdle for learning when a piece of new information, i.e. Green sky is introduced.
The link between working memory & mindfulness
Mindfulness is the state where all the distractions are removed and the concentration is focused on the present. It makes the person fully cognizant of the surroundings.
In a study, it was identified that mindfulness increased the density of the hippocampus. This region plays a major role in short-term and long-term memory. Therefore, many proofs linking mindfulness to working memory began to emerge with each research.
What do the studies say?
There was one analysis conducted on 79 people who either took up mindfulness training or participated in the creative writing process. The volunteers who chose the former underwent extensive mindfulness training with a professional trainer. One hour-long session every week was conducted.
All the participants’ working memory was gauged before and after the sessions through a test. The researchers also took MRI imaging of some of the participants. At the first glance, nothing significant was observed in the brain scans. However, as the researchers delved deeper, they began to see some development in the hippocampus region.
The volume of the left hippocampus was linked to a reduction in errors in the test. But, this change was only observed in the group that took the mindfulness training.
Decreasing proactive interference with mindfulness
Working memory impacts cognitive abilities such as language comprehension, problem-solving, and logical reasoning. A child develops strong mental capabilities with child concentration exercises and mindfulness training.
Proactive interference is reduced by practising mindfulness. Therefore, a person will easily acquire new information without prior memories influencing the learning. When this is done in addition to the externally-driven activities such as exercise, sleep, and cognitive engagement, brain health will improve along with general well-being.
