Subconscious processing

The subconscious mind plays a crucial role in how we experience our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, much of which happens below our conscious awareness. Andrew Huberman describes this using the "Iceberg model," where the vast majority of mental processing occurs beneath the surface in the unconscious mind. Key functions of this unconscious processing include the generation of our feelings, thoughts, and behaviors, many of which are not consciously perceived.

The unconscious mind operates much like an iceberg with a small visible part (the conscious mind) and a vast hidden part (the unconscious mind). The tools to interact with and understand this unconscious processing can help in managing both healthy and unhealthy influences on our conscious lives. These include understanding the roles of various defense mechanisms such as projection, sublimation, and denial, which while protective against trauma, can complicate our self-perception and interactions with others if not properly managed 1.

Additionally, Andrew Huberman refers to the subconscious as a "supercomputer" that performs significant mental processing and influences. Acknowledging and engaging with this part of our mind can lead to deeper self-awareness and more effective mental health strategies 2.