Ask Nicola Q&A: How to understand mind palaces and the method of loci
G’day and welcome to Forever Young Autobiographies – Ask Nicola.
As a life-story coach I’m asked many questions about planning, writing, polishing and publishing.
And in this Q&A series my responses aim to help life-story creators!
So today’s question is: “What are memory palaces for your mind?”
What are memory palaces?
We rely on memories to create life stories, which we often write down.
However, memory palaces are constructed in the mind.
For example, a place you have visited or imagined such as a house or street.
And you assign a memory to each room, street corner or landmark.
Related article – How to beat memoir writer’s block in 8 simple steps
Why do people use memory palaces?
Memory palaces, also known as the method of loci, have been used for thousands of years.
Indeed they were adopted by indigenous tribes, the Greeks and even the fictional Sherlock Holmes.
Most notably this was to record information before we invented writing (and the internet!).
But also because our brains are fantastic at linking memories with places.
Related article – How does memory work? Your questions answered about what is memory and types of memory
Related article – Story detail: Identifying key details in a story to make your autobiography shine
Other memory techniques
Memory palaces in the mind are but one mnemonic technique.
Certainly there are other ways to ‘encode’ memories.
For example, through stars, songs, dance, art, buildings, place and objects.
Check out author and educator Lynne Kelly for more on this fascinating topic!
Related article – Music and memories: 3 song memory tricks to use while dancing up a storm!
Related article – Genetic memory: Does your memoir include genetic memory examples?
Final say: Memory palaces
Today’s Ask Nicola question focuses on what are memory palaces.
In short, they are wonderfully creative and useful ways to remember almost anything!
However, for life-story creators, they definitely highlight how revisiting places from the past triggers memories.
So try it today, physically or via your mind’s eye.
Happy writing!
Free gift!
Want to record a loved one’s memories for future generations? I’ve done just this and show you how in the Your Family Stories System. Try the first few sections for free. Sign up here!
Your say
What best triggers your memories? I always love hearing from readers. Drop me an email or leave a reply in the comments section at the end of this article.
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