why do random memories from literal decades ago just randomly pop into our head?

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I was getting ready for bed tonight, and as I turned off the light, the planet song from Blue’s Clues just popped into my head, and I remembered every word and note perfectly.

I haven’t watched any space documentaries or thought about Nick Jr. in forever. I don’t think I’ve heard this song since 1998.

What is the science as to why such a random memory would’ve popped into my head seemingly out of nowhere?

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Anonymous 0 Comments

Im no expert on brains or memory. But I have thought about the same thing several times before. The brain stores and organizes information all the time, and sometimes old memories that are stored away suddenly reappear to the front of the mind. This often happens when you associate something with the memory. Perhaps a certain taste, smell, image etc. This can then trigger an old memory to reappear.

Then there is ”spontaneous recall” which basically means sometimes old memories randomly emerge during times of stress, relaxation or periods of daydreaming.

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