Working memory is your brain's "workbench." It has limited capacity. If you place a complex math problem on it, there will be no room for worrying about the future. This is the phenomenon of cognitive games in the fight against anxiety and ruminations.
N-Back Task
This is the gold standard in working memory research. It involves indicating whether the current stimulus (e.g., an image or sound) is the same as one presented N steps earlier (e.g., 2 steps ago). It's an incredibly engaging task. Studies show that regular N-Back training improves fluid intelligence and emotional control.
Scientific Sources:
- Jaeggi, S. M., et al. (2008). "Improving fluid intelligence with training on working memory".
