two contrasting brain networks functional MRI examination of

two contrasting brain networks functional MRI examination of the brain: ³ when the brain is not task-focused, it tends to fall back into a ‘rest state’ characterized by mind-wandering, often involving verbal and memory processes ³ when attention becomes more focused this takes up brain ‘processing power’ – imaging shows inhibition of the default mind-wandering areas of the brain Raichle, M. E. , A. M. Mac. Leod, et al. (2001). "A default mode of brain function. " Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 98(2): 676 -82. Fox, M. D. , A. Z. Snyder, et al. (2005). "The human brain is intrinsically organized into dynamic, anticorrelated functional networks. " Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 102(27): 9673 -8.

a default day dreaming network ³ mind-wandering involves brain activity in a default network of at least 7 areas in the cortex e. g. cingulate gyrus, etc ³ many of these brain areas have been linked with ‘verbal processing’ activity ³ there also seems a connection between some of these areas and memory Vincent, J. L. , A. Z. Snyder, et al. (2006). "Coherent spontaneous activity identifies a hippocampal-parietal memory network. " J Neurophysiol 96(6): 3517 -31. Mason, M. F. , M. I. Norton, et al. (2007). "Wandering minds: the default network and stimulus-independent thought. " Science 315(5810): 393 -5.

mind-wandering: benefits & costs v benefits: memories (both happy & tip-of-tongue); occasional creativity; some humour; maybe other currently unrecognized functions v costs: short term: poor attention to outer environment reduces safety, learning & effectiveness; lower sense of autonomy & control; indecision; worse moment-to-moment mood medium term: increased severity & duration of low mood & worry; diminished ‘flow’ experiences long term: low ‘engagement’ in life associated with poorer overall life satisfaction

the attention directing network ¶ imaging studies highlight two components of the attention directing network ¶ one is a deliberate, task-focused system involving bilateral, dorsal parts of the brain ¶ the other re-orientates attention to relevant sensory input via a right-sided ventral system ¶ if neither of these systems is active the brain defaults to the mind-wandering ‘rest’ state Fox, M. D. , M. Corbetta, et al. (2006). "Spontaneous neuronal activity distinguishes human dorsal and ventral attention systems. " Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 103(26): 10046 -51.

deliberate attention: a forest track ¶ so to reduce mind-wandering, it makes great sense to activate the deliberate dorsal attention directing system ¶ this keeps us on track and brings us out of the mind-wandering ‘underbrush’ ¶ ‘richer’, more demanding tasks are likely to quieten the mind more effectively – feel deeply into experience ¶ attitude too is important – like a good parent – accepting, encouraging, kind Mc. Kiernan, K. A. , J. N. Kaufman, et al. (2003). "A Parametric Manipulation of Factors Affecting Task-induced Deactivation in Functional Neuroimaging. " J Cogn Neurosci 15(3): 394 -408.