Earworms, or 'brainworms,' are fragments of music that embed themselves in our minds, sometimes for hours or even days, without us being able to get rid of them. Have you ever found yourself constantly humming a song, unable to shake it from your mind, even if you wanted to? This phenomenon is more common than you might think and affects a large number of people around the world.
Understanding the Earworm Phenomenon
Earworms are often simple, repetitive melodies with a catchy rhythm or easy-to-remember lyrics. Research conducted by Dr. Kelly Jakubowski, a specialist in music psychology, has shown that these melodies tend to be upbeat and optimistic in nature, making them more likely to stick in our minds. Her studies also suggest that earworms often occur when the mind is at rest, such as during routine activities like walking or showering.
But why do some songs embed themselves in our heads more than others? Dr. Jakubowski discovered that earworms are often triggered by strong emotional or contextual associations. A song you heard during a significant moment or that reminds you of a particular emotion is more likely to keep returning to your mind.
My Method: The Sustained Note
I have to admit that earworms often stick in my head for several days. So much so that I wake up in the morning with a terrible headache, convinced that I hummed all night.
There are several methods to get rid of earworms. One of them, personal and simple, involves singing, blowing, or even thinking of a sustained note, then focusing solely on that note. The idea is to divert the mind's attention from the persistent melody by focusing all mental energy on a single continuous sound.
This technique helps me get rid of them, provided I have enough motivation to sustain the note each time the music returns. And there's no need to try the technique of "finishing" the music, as it's usually an improvisation.
This method may work because it creates a sort of cognitive "reset," where the mind is occupied with a simple but demanding task. The sustained note can act as a mental "cleanser," erasing the repetitive melody to make way for welcome silence.
The Earworm Eraser: A Scientific Solution
For those who want to get rid of these stubborn melodies, Dr. Jakubowski contributed to the creation of "The Earworm Eraser," a video designed to banish earworms. The video uses specific sounds and musical sequences designed to "erase" the earworm. The principle is based on the idea that listening to these sequences disrupts the repetitive cycle of the stuck melody, allowing the mind to move on. Here it is:
Users of "The Earworm Eraser" report varying results: for some, this video works like a charm, while others find the effects more temporary. Nonetheless, this video represents an innovative attempt to address this universal problem.
Other Strategies to Break Free from Earworms
In addition to the methods mentioned, there are other strategies commonly recommended by psychologists and researchers. For example:
- Listening to the song in its entirety: Sometimes, listening to the entire song can allow the mind to "finish" it and thus release it.
- Distraction: Engaging the mind in a complex or demanding activity, such as solving a puzzle or reading a book, can help divert attention from the earworm.
- Changing the song: Listening to another song, preferably less catchy, can replace the earworm with a less intrusive melody.
Conclusion
Earworms, though harmless, can be a source of frustration for many. Fortunately, with solutions like Dr. Kelly Jakubowski's "The Earworm Eraser" and alternative methods like the sustained note, it is possible to regain some control over our mental landscape. Whether you opt for a technological approach or a more intuitive technique, the important thing is to find what works for you and regain peace of mind.
And you? What’s your technique?
