“I do some of my best thinking in the shower. Not just musical ideas, but all kinds of ideas come flowing in with the hot water.” – Glen Hansard, Irish songwriter and actor.
Do you get your best ideas in the shower? I do too!
But why? What is it about showers that make ideas naturally come so easily?
This phenomenon is not just a coincidence; there’s a fascinating psychological explanation behind it. In this article, we’ll delve into the science and psychology of why our minds are ripe for creativity and problem-solving in the shower.
Examples of Great Ideas that Came from the Shower
- Dr. Satoshi Kurihara’s AI Algorithm: Dr. Kurihara, a Japanese researcher, reported that he conceived an algorithm for artificial intelligence while in the shower. This insight helped him advance his research in the field.
- JK Rowling’s Plot Solutions: While not specifically attributed to a shower, JK Rowling has mentioned that she often came up with solutions to tricky plot problems in her “Harry Potter” series while taking long baths, a similar relaxed and solitary environment.
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One of Dean Kamen’s most famous inventions was born from the instinct to draw his arms back to balance when he slipped in the shower one morning: welcome, the Segway.
5 Reasons Why You Get the Best Ideas in the Shower
1 – The Relaxation Response:
One of the key factors contributing to our shower-time epiphanies is the state of relaxation we experience. When we’re in the shower, our bodies are warm, and we’re engaged in a routine, mundane task. This relaxation triggers a response in our brain that lowers stress and anxiety levels, creating an ideal environment for creative thinking. The release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and creativity, is also enhanced during relaxation, further fueling our imaginative capabilities.
2- The Default Mode Network (DMN):
The Default Mode Network is a network of interconnected brain regions that becomes more active when we’re not focusing on the external world or engaged in specific tasks. During a shower, the DMN kicks into high gear, allowing our minds to wander and engage in what’s known as “mind-wandering.” This state is closely linked to creativity, as it enables us to make novel connections and associations between seemingly unrelated ideas.
3 – Reduced Distractions:
In today’s digital age, we’re constantly bombarded with notifications, emails, and other distractions. The shower, however, provides a rare sanctuary from these interruptions. The absence of smartphones, computers, and other distractions allows our minds to focus inwardly, creating a space for introspection and free-flowing thoughts. This undisturbed environment is conducive to the emergence of creative ideas and solutions.
4- The Magic of Water
The sensory experience of taking a shower can also stimulate creativity. The feel of water on our skin, the sound of the water, and the visual simplicity of the shower space can all contribute to a state of mindfulness and presence. This heightened sensory awareness can lead to increased mental clarity and the ability to connect ideas in new and innovative ways.
5 – The Eureka Effect:
Finally, the phenomenon of suddenly realizing a solution to a problem or having a breakthrough idea while in the shower is known as the “Eureka Effect.” This effect is often the result of our subconscious mind working on a problem without our conscious awareness. When we’re relaxed and our minds are wandering, these subconscious thoughts can bubble up to the surface, leading to those “aha” moments.
Quotes about Showers
“I’ve actually always found something very therapeutic about cleaning. I used to have a lot of temper tantrums, and I realized as I got older that they were linked to not cleaning my soul, getting things out – whether that’s exercising or taking a shower.” – Jonathan Van Ness, American hairdresser, television personality, and author.
“I always get my best ideas in the shower. I think it’s because I’m so relaxed and there are no distractions. It’s just me and the water.” – Sarah J. Maas, American fantasy author.
The next time you find yourself struck by a brilliant idea in the shower, know that there’s a fascinating interplay of psychological and neurological factors at play. The relaxation response, the activation of the Default Mode Network, reduced distractions, sensory stimulation, and the Eureka Effect all contribute to making the shower a hotspot for creativity and problem-solving. So, the next time you’re in need of inspiration, perhaps a warm shower might just be the key to unlocking your next great idea.
“Everyone who’s ever taken a shower has an idea. It’s the person who gets out of the shower, dries off and does something about it who makes a difference.” Nolan Bushnell
