Section 1.1: The Brain's Default Mode Network

Current studies reveal that when our thoughts drift, we enter an altered state of consciousness. Research has identified a "default mode" network in the brain that becomes active in these moments. The discovery of this network, made about twenty years ago, has spurred extensive research into the interactions of various brain regions.

To illustrate, when engaging in a task—whether it's lifting weights or taking an exam—the brain areas responsible for these actions become active as neurons increase their electrical activity. But what about when we’re zoning out on the couch? Researchers have established that even during such passive moments, the brain remains active.

Over the last two decades, scientists have defined the default mode network, a collection of seemingly disparate brain regions that activate when our minds are at rest. This discovery has expanded our understanding of brain function beyond just task-oriented activities, prompting inquiries into how these networks govern our internal experiences.

In the late 20th century, neuroscientists began utilizing advanced imaging techniques to observe brain activity during various tasks. They found that while certain areas showed increased activity, others decreased simultaneously. This led to the identification of "task-negative" regions—areas that seem to deactivate when we focus externally.

Marcus Raichle, a neurologist at Washington University, was intrigued by these task-negative areas and their role in resting brain activity. In an experiment where participants were asked to close their eyes and let their minds wander, he discovered that these areas consumed more energy than the rest of the brain. He coined this phenomenon the "default mode of brain function."

In a subsequent study, researchers from Stanford University confirmed that this activity constitutes a coherent network of interacting brain regions, which they named the default mode network.

The second video features an interview with Dr. Newberg on the neuroscience of spirituality, discussing how our brain's wiring influences our spiritual experiences and perceptions.

Section 1.2: The Complexity of the Default Mode Network

The default mode network has generated curiosity among neuroscientists about what the brain is up to when not engaged in external tasks. While some researchers posit that its primary function is to facilitate mind wandering or daydreaming, others suggest it may assist in recalling past experiences or generating streams of consciousness. Disruptions in this network have been linked to various psychiatric and neurological disorders, including depression and Alzheimer’s disease.

In recent years, research has revealed that the default mode network is not a standalone entity; it interacts with other brain networks. Lucina Uddin, a neuroscientist at UCLA, highlights the importance of these interactions. She emphasizes that studying how different networks communicate can provide deeper insights than examining them in isolation.

Uddin's research focuses on how the default mode network interacts with the salience network, which helps prioritize relevant information. Her findings suggest that when something significant captures our attention, the salience network may effectively switch off the default mode network.

The exploration of these brain networks has also opened discussions about their potential links to mental health disorders. Investigations have produced mixed results; some studies show overly connected nodes in individuals with depression, while others indicate disconnection. This inconsistency suggests that depression may represent a cluster of disorders sharing similar symptoms.

Theoretical frameworks like the triple network theory proposed by Vinod Menon posit that abnormal interactions between the default mode network, salience network, and frontoparietal network could contribute to various mental health issues, including anxiety and autism.

The Current State of Understanding

The current understanding of the default mode network is likely just the beginning. Its discovery has prompted neuroscientists to consider how brain networks interact rather than focusing solely on individual regions. This shift has led to a greater appreciation for the inward-focused activities of the mind, revealing that even during moments of rest or daydreaming, the brain remains active.

While isolating neurobiological factors may clarify what occurs in the brain during altered states, it doesn't necessarily yield profound insights into spiritual wisdom, the nature of reality, or how to engage with the world.

The Takeaway

Regardless of the philosophical underpinnings surrounding mystical experiences, these experiences are inherently personal and internal. There is a growing inclination to view the mystical through the lens of psychology, even when such experiences arise in lucid dreams or astral projections.

Living in a material world compels us to reference our experiences through social interaction. Mysticism, by its very nature, remains an internal journey that often detaches it from broader political issues. While a mystic may adopt a political stance, this choice remains distinct from their experiential reality.

Ultimately, mysticism focuses on cultivating inner states of tranquility, wisdom, and equanimity. Though mystics may engage with the world through love, compassion, and mindfulness, their actions often appear as efforts to alleviate personal anxiety rather than as attempts to transform society.

Here is a story that further explores this topic:

@tarynjarboe

My Daughter Sent Me a Message on the Second Anniversary of Her Death I must trust that each step forward is toward a new beginning our family so deserves.

Here is another story from my archives:

@LewisCoaches

The 23 Best Movies About Strategy and Forecasting A game theorist's guide

This narrative is an excerpt from my course module on decision-making, part of my online program, “The Mystic’s Academy.” You can explore this course and more at:

Welcome To The Mystic's Academy At The International Association of Healing Professionals

asklewis.substack.com