A Defense of Daydreaming

Guests: Mary Helen Immordino–Yang, Scott Barry Kaufman

Children are often told to stop daydreaming.  But neuroscientists are finding that daydreaming is vital exercise for the brain. Letting your mind wander is important for saving memories, planning for the future, developing morality, creative thinking and self-awareness.  But in our increasingly busy and distracted lives, some people worry that we are losing idling time to linger in the shower, stare out a window, and just twiddle our thumbs.  This hour – a conversation with two psychologists on the importance of downtime.  Marty talks with MARY HELEN IMMORDINO-YANG, Assistant Professor of Psychology at the Brain and Creativity Institute at the University of Southern California and SCOTT BARRY KAUFMAN, Adjunct Assistant Professor of Psychology at New York University.

(AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)