The strange feeling you experience when staring at yourself in the mirror for an extended period is a common phenomenon known as the "strange-face illusion" or the "Troxler effect." It's an optical illusion that occurs due to how our brains process visual information.
The Troxler effect is a type of perceptual fading, where unchanging or repetitive visual stimuli lose their intensity or disappear from our perception over time. When you stare at yourself in the mirror, your brain becomes accustomed to the image, and the neurons responsible for processing that specific information start to adapt or "fatigue." As a result, certain details of your face may appear distorted, blurred, or seem to change subtly.
Additionally, prolonged staring can lead to increased self-awareness and introspection. This heightened focus on your own appearance may trigger self-reflection, and you may become more aware of imperfections or aspects of your appearance that you might not typically notice during casual glances in the mirror.
Furthermore, some people report experiencing feelings of detachment or dissociation when staring at their reflection for too long. This phenomenon is often related to psychological factors and may be connected to conditions like depersonalization or derealization, where individuals feel disconnected from themselves or their surroundings.
Overall, the strange feeling you experience when staring at yourself in the mirror is a combination of perceptual and psychological factors. It's a curious aspect of human perception, and while it can be intriguing, it's essential to maintain a healthy perspective on self-image and not let such experiences negatively impact your self-esteem or mental well-being. If you find that staring at yourself in the mirror triggers distressing emotions or concerns, consider discussing it with a mental health professional to gain a better understanding of your feelings and explore coping strategies.