SMRTR Science & EngineeringAug 3, 2025Live Science

When your mind goes 'blank,' your brain activity resembles deep sleep, scans reveal

SMRTR summary

New research reveals "mind blanking"—a waking state when conscious thought stops—shares brain patterns with deep sleep. EEG and fMRI scans show that during these moments (occurring in 5-20% of waking hours), the brain exhibits global slowing and hyperconnectivity. Scientists believe these brief mental pauses might function as mini-resets, similar to how deep sleep helps clear waste and cool the brain.

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