"Brain rot, the Oxford word of the year for 2024, is best understood as the decline in cognitive abilities that comes from endless exposure to easily digestible information."
"When we're engaging with this sort of media, our brains are both underworked because the information is easy to understand and overworked because there is so much information to absorb."
"Things that require considerable mental effort, such as cryptic crosswords, can reset the balance between effort and reward, leading to feelings of mastery and success."
"If you don't practice a skill, or challenge your brain to begin with, you won't build those pathways at all."
Brain rot, the decline in cognitive abilities from constant exposure to easily digestible information, is increasing due to social media and shortform videos. This phenomenon leaves individuals feeling exhausted despite minimal productivity. Engaging with challenging activities, like cryptic crosswords, can help restore cognitive balance and enhance feelings of mastery. Additionally, relying on AI for easy answers can hinder brain development, as practicing skills is essential for building cognitive pathways. Incorporating cognitive challenges into daily life is crucial for mental health and productivity.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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