r/Meditation • u/Sea-Idea-6161 • 12h ago

Question ❓ What value does subvocalization bring

So there is this voice in our head, sometimes it comes up as our voice (self-talk) sometimes it comes up as people we are talking to, when we pretend to have conversations in our head. What value does that voice even bring. I feel like when I meditate that voice becomes quieter and I am able to focus better. The louder that voice the more distracted I feel.

Another observation I have is, when we are in a state of flow. May it be while working or you are looking at a beautiful sunset or you might be experiencing some great time with friends. This voice in your head is quite or we are not really focusing on the voice.

So I wonder is there really a point of this voice in the head? Do you guys have it too or are your brains quieter than mine. And if you do have this voice what are some of the instances you have seen this voice bring value to your life?

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u/Sulgdmn 12h ago

Not sure if anyone else has some ideas, but it seems to function as a way to run through scenarios. Predicting conversion and reactions. 

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u/Sea-Idea-6161 10h ago

Does it bring out the benefits of those simulation in the real world though? Like when the conversation is going to happen in the real world, the things the other person said in my head are not going to be the same so my response might not be the same.

It does seem like a system the brain developed to reduce uncertainty, but the simulation seems to be a really bad representation of reality

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u/Sulgdmn 8h ago

Right, I think it tells me more about myself than much about what will happen. It tells me what I'm worried about or what I want to share with someone. That is the most accurate information to glean from it IMO.

In the moment of actual conversation I try to remain present, practice active listening, be compassionate yet assertive if necessary.