Recursion can be a mind-bender, but it's a powerful tool in computer programming. It's when a function calls itself, like a neverending echo chamber. But there's usually a base case that stops the loop from going on forever. It's kind of like a set of Russian nesting dolls – each doll opens to reveal another doll, until you get to the smallest one. Recursion can be used to solve complex problems by breaking them down into smaller, similar ones.