LAST week, we dived into the profound importance of our physical senses, acknowledging their role in shaping our experiences and interactions with the world around us. It was a poignant reminder of how easily we can take these senses for granted, not realising their intrinsic value until we face the possibility of losing them. This week, let us further explore how these senses contribute to memory formation and are intertwined with our well-being.
Dear reader, memory formation is one of the most intriguing and vital functions of the human brain. It refers to the process by which our brains convert experiences into lasting patterns that we can retrieve later. Memory isn’t just a catalogue of past events; it defines us, shapes our perceptions of the world, and influences our future choices. In exploring the role of our physical senses in this process, we delve into a fascinating landscape of neuroscience, psychology, and dare I say, spirituality.
Let us break down what memory formation is … It involves three key stages, namely encoding, storage, and retrieval. First, when we experience something — whether it’s a sound, a smell, or a view — our brain encodes this information. This encoding is heavily influenced by our physical senses. Our eyes might capture the sight of a sunset, while our ears may catch the soft lull of waves crashing on the shore. Once encoded, the memory is stored in various brain regions for later retrieval. Super cool, right?
Now, here’s where things get more interesting…. Our physical senses can significantly impact the quality and accuracy of our memories. Let’s consider a classic example — those with a strong sense of smell can probably recall a specific perfume or meal that triggers a nostalgic memory. This phenomenon isn’t just poetic; it’s rooted in science. Research indicates that the olfactory bulb, the part of the brain responsible for processing smells, is closely linked to areas involved in emotion and memory, such as the amygdala and hippocampus. That’s why a whiff of freshly baked cookies might transport you back to your grandmother’s kitchen, igniting a flood of memories associated with love and comfort.
But what happens when our physical senses are not as reliable? Memory deformation can occur. Everyday life presents us with myriad stimuli, and our senses can sometimes mislead us. Consider a crowded concert where multiple sounds intermingle. If you recall a moment from that night, your brain may piece together sounds or images that didn’t occur in precisely the way you remember them. Confirmation bias and suggestion can also skew memories. For instance, if someone tells us a story about a particular event, our memory might align with theirs, even if those details are incorrect. This might lead us into a world of false memories, where the brain’s reconstruction process can result in highly implausible events being recalled as genuine. Investigating these deformations presents a striking case for understanding the fragility of human memory.
Delving into the scientific realm, let us examine some intriguing studies surrounding sensory input and memory. A 2018 study published in the journal “Neuron” showed that memories tied to specific sensory experiences are better retained than those that are not. Participants exposed to scents while learning new information could recall the information better when the same scents were presented during the retrieval phase. Similarly, research has demonstrated that individuals with higher levels of sensory perception often show a superior capacity for forming detailed memories. This underscores the idea that our senses are not merely tools for experiencing life, but integral players in how we remember our experiences.
Now, let’s weave in the concept that underpins everything: the divine intricacy with which we are created. Many believe that God intentionally designed humans with sensory organs to experience the richness of life. The physical senses may not just be for survival; they encourage connection — connection to each other and our past. In the Bible, we read that we are “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14), implying that the very physiology of our being was purposefully crafted.
When we recognise and honour our senses, we appreciate the masterpiece that human existence truly is.
In our exploration of sensory memory, it is essential to recognise the scientific principles underpinning this phenomenon.
Studies in the field of neuroscience have revealed that sensory experiences significantly activate specific areas of the brain associated with memory formation.
Moreover, sensory engagement enhances memory retention. A 2014 study published in the journal “Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews” illustrated how multisensory experiences lead to better memory recall. The more senses involved in the initial experience, the stronger the memory trace. For example, consider the powerful combination of sounds, smells, and visuals during a family gathering. The laughter, the aroma of our grandmother’s famous dish, and the sight of loved ones gathered around the table create a deep, lasting imprint on our memory. The more senses we engage, the richer and more vivid our memories become.
However, it is crucial to acknowledge a darker possibility — the process of memory deformation. As we age or grapple with cognitive decline, we may find that our memories falter, often accompanied by a deterioration of our senses. Imagine watching a loved one suffering from dementia, experiencing the heart-wrenching pain of witnessing their memories fade away. My experience came when my mother, once a vibrant storyteller, began losing her grip on reality. Tiny pieces of our shared world — sweet moments encapsulated in memories — started slipping away from her like grains of sand through her fingers. It was a gut-wrenching journey as she struggled to recognise faces, including mine, and the warmth that once radiated from her eyes turned into confusion and fear.
The emotional toll of such experiences is profound. The sadness of a loved one no longer remembering us, the shared laughter, and the intimate moments we once enjoyed can leave a void that’s impossible to fill. It is a powerful reminder of why we must treasure our memories and the senses contributing to their formation.
So how do we treasure our physical senses before it’s too late? First, we learn to cultivate an attitude of gratitude toward them. Each sense offers a unique lens through which to view the world. Acknowledging their importance can lead to deeper connection and appreciation. Engage in activities that stimulate our senses — try savouring our favourite dish, taking a long walk in nature, experimenting with art, or even meditating with our eyes closed to amplify our sense of hearing. The more we immerse ourselves in these sensory experiences, the more enriched our memories will become.
Moreover, nurturing our relationships with loved ones can enhance the sensory experiences that lead to lasting memories.
Shared laughter, heart-to-heart conversations, and celebratory moments create the backdrop for a rich tapestry of shared experience. By actively participating in each other’s lives and engaging our senses in these encounters, we generate invaluable memories that can weather the storms of time.
Finally, striving for a lifestyle that prioritises our well-being — both mental and physical — can have a positive impact on how our senses function and memories are formed. Mindful and intentional practices like meditation, prayer, movement of the body or simply being present in the moment can sharpen our senses and enhance our overall happiness, fostering a healthier mind equipped to create and recall memories more adeptly.
Dear reader, in conclusion, memory formation is a multifaceted process deeply intertwined with our physical senses. So next time you find yourself reminiscing, pay attention to the sights, sounds, and smells around you. They might lead us back to places we never thought we had forgotten.
Next week, we shall delve into sensory processing disorder, observing the complexities when the brain encounters challenges in receiving and responding to sensory information, uncovering its implications and seeking strategies for support. Until then, I wish you insightful reflections and enriched experiences through your senses. May your memories shine vividly, and may your journey of learning always inspire and uplift you.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune. The writer can be reached at lawleepoh@gmail.com.
