The Beatles’ song Yesterday showcases the creative potential of the hypnagogic state, also known as the twilight zone between sleep and wakefulness. This state has been a source of inspiration for many people, including great discoveries and inventions.
Paul McCartney’s experience with Yesterday illustrates how ideas can emerge spontaneously in this state. He had the melody playing in his head and quickly created chords to fit it. However, he suspected that he might have plagiarized another composition, which highlights the importance of recognizing and embracing our subconscious mind.
Research shows that the hypnagogic state is a creative “sweet spot” where ideas can flow freely. This state allows for coordination between the cognitive control network and the default mode network, leading to innovative solutions and discoveries.
Psychologist Frederic Myers’ theory on creativity suggests that ideas come from beyond our conscious mind. Our unconscious mind is constantly gestating ideas, which can emerge during relaxation and idleness.
The importance of relaxation in fostering creativity cannot be overstated. Meditation and quieting the conscious mind allow us to receive inspiration from beyond it. Researchers have found that around 80% of people experience the hypnagogic state, and with practice, we can cultivate this habit by recording our ideas as soon as they arise.
By embracing the power of the hypnagogic state and using techniques like “conscious napping” and idleness to cultivate creativity, we can tap into the vast potential of our subconscious mind.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/a-hidden-brain-state-before-sleep-may-be-the-key-to-human-genius