Solving a complex problem can feel like killing an invisible barrier again and again. This is disappointing because the answer seems to be within access, yet the dots will not simply connect. But perhaps the solution lies in withdrawing a step, and just … napping!
A study published in the Journal of Sleep Research revealed how the sleep improves problems-solution skills. REM (Rapid Eye Movement) is responsible for the positive change of sleep.
Researchers found in their studies that the participants who took a brief nap were able to solve complex problems unlike those who did not take any nap. Let’s see how it works.
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How the nap helps in problems
The study analog was focused on problems. This includes solving a new problem with the help of knowledge from a similar problem with the help of knowledge, which has been solved earlier and. People already know about the solution because in a different situation, they have already dealt with it. But sometimes, research stated in detail that the conscious mind focuses a lot more on surface-level details rather than looking at the underlying pattern.
This is the place where REM sleeps. RAM (Rapid Eye Movement) is the sleeping phase with the most vivid dreams. This is also a sleeping phase when the brain is most active, so in a way, it tries to reorganize and add existing information.
So when you get up from your nap, it feels more refreshed and you get the light bulb ‘aha moment’ given the problem with a new perspective.
Not based on memory
Now, it may seem clear that memory plays a role in it; People with better memory will be more likely to remember and implement previous solutions. However, this was not the case in the study. In the experiment, 58 participants between the ages of 18 to 29 were divided into two groups: the awakened group and NAP group.
Initially, 8 problems were given to solve them all (source problems.) They had 3 minutes to solve each. After the problems were resolved, the correct solution was shown to help them remember it.
For the second set, they are again given a new set of 8 problems (a new set of target problems (). These sources are similar to problems, but also different on the surface. The group that naps (2 hours) compared to other groups. These target problems solved more.
The difference is not which group has better memory, it is comfort. After a nap, the brain was capable of connecting dots and understanding equality. With the restructuring of information in REM sleep, the brain fed these dots better to solve problems.
Disclaimer: This article is only for informative purposes and is not an option for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor with any question about a medical condition.
Also read: Catching lost sleep during the weekend can avoid heart attack. Here’s why you don’t leave it
