The phenomenon you are describing is called "déjà vu." Déjà vu is a French term that translates to "already seen." It refers to the feeling or sensation that you have experienced a current situation or event before, even though you know you haven't.
Déjà vu is relatively common and can happen to many people at different points in their lives. The experience can vary from a fleeting sensation to a strong and intense feeling of familiarity. It usually lasts for a few seconds and then passes.
The exact cause of déjà vu is not entirely understood, but there are several theories:
Memory-related theory: Some researchers suggest that déjà vu occurs when there is a temporary glitch in the brain's memory processing, causing the brain to retrieve information from the past and mistakenly perceive it as a current experience.
Dual processing theory: According to this theory, déjà vu happens when there is a slight delay in the brain processing information from our senses. As a result, the same information reaches the brain twice, creating a sense of familiarity.
Neurological theories: Some studies have linked déjà vu to the brain's temporal lobe, suggesting that certain electrical or chemical changes in this region may trigger the sensation.
Psychological factors: Stress, fatigue, or anxiety can also contribute to the experience of déjà vu.
It's essential to note that occasional déjà vu experiences are considered normal and not usually a cause for concern. However, if you find that déjà vu episodes are becoming very frequent, intense, or are significantly impacting your daily life, it might be worth discussing with a healthcare professional or neurologist to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
In most cases, déjà vu is simply a curious and transient experience that doesn't have any significant long-term effects on a person's well-being.