A healthy brain is crucial to the optimal functioning of bodily processes. Different areas of the brain are responsible for specific actions. Memory, logical thought, emotion, voluntary actions, internal processes – each is directed by a certain part of the brain. Integrating the different areas of the brain is dependent upon proper nourishment and innervation. Proper nutrition, strategic supplementation and deep respiration are components for maintaining brain health.
Congruence within the body is reflective of a healthy brain. The body functions as an integrated whole. Movements, internal processes, thoughts all occur simultaneously. There really is no break in how the body performs all of these actions. When the brain is healthy it functions quickly and automatically. When problems occur, the results can be devastating. Some 50 million people in this country—one in five—suffer from damage to the nervous system. Effects such as neurological disorders, genetic defects, metabolic complications, brain degenerative diseases and brain trauma can be extremely complicating to one’s life and livelihood.
Specific tasks are handled selectively due to partitioning within the brain. The cerebellum controls the body’s vital functions such as respiration and heart rate. The cerebellum also coordinates movement and is involved in learned rote movements. The fore brain consists mainly of the cerebrum which is split into two halves. The left hemisphere is concerned with word formation, while many abstract reasoning skills are directed by the right hemisphere. Information processing occurs in the thin outer covering of the brain called to cerebral cortex. Coordinating daily functions i.e. waking you up in the morning, getting the adrenaline flowing during a test or job interview is controlled by the hypothalamus. This basic overview of the brain provides a glimpse as to the complexity of the functions that are coordinated within the brain.
The inter-connectivity between different parts of the brain is key to overall brain health. The areas of the brain are connected by cells called neurons. “Each neuron is connected to other neurons by up to 40,000 individual connections (called synapses) between cells. Multiplying 100 billion neurons times 40,000 synapses is equivalent to the brain having more connections in it than there are stars in the universe. A piece of brain tissue the size of a grain of sand contains 100,000 neurons and 1 billion synapses, all communicating with one another. Each neuron is connected to other neurons by up to 40,000 individual connections (called synapses) between cells. Multiplying 100 billion neurons times 40,000 synapses is equivalent to the brain having more connections in it than there are stars in the universe. A piece of brain tissue the size of a grain of sand contains 100,000 neurons and 1 billion synapses, all communicating with one another.” There is ongoing study as to how these connections from different areas of the brain interact with each other for the smooth operation of the body.
Good brain health results from quality nutrient consumption and bgrey matter bolstering activity. Foods such as fresh fish, certain spices, fruits and parsley provide compounds that benefit the brain (Astaxanthin, Curcumin, PPQ, Ω (Omega) 3’s). Supplements can also assist in the stability and continuity of brain function (ashwagandha, blueberry extract, pregnenolone, colostrinin). An accessible methodology that can bolster brain health is deep breathing. Studies show that the brains of long term meditators retain the mass of more youthful individuals. There are various brain training and brain building activities that can help with maintaining the integrity of the brain.
The body’s functions and processes are all coordinated in the brain. The coordination of these functions requires that the brain be in a healthy state. The health of the brain allows for concise communication between the different brain compartments. Of course there are activities and habits that can help in maintaining brain health and function. Healthy mind / Healthy body.
If you are experiencing any to of problems, consult with your doctor before embarking on any regimen of supplementation.
Let the Austin, TX based trainers at Ab-Sutra Wellness and Fitness help you programming for activities to enhance your brain,
Ab-Sutra Wellness and Fitness 