Functions of the Brain

The insula is a radically underappreciated part of the brain. It's been called by Daniel Siegel, M.D. the "the information superhighway" that runs up and down between higher, cortical brain areas; lower, limbic areas; and the body. Experiments... Full Answer

Although the brain can change, it usually won't do so without putting up a bit of a fight. That's because it is set up to resist change, especially sudden change. The brain operates under the same principle as your body: homeostasis. Just as body's... Full Answer

Your gut is synced up with your brain. Just think about how a bout of intense fear or panic can liquefy your innards -- or, more commonly, when a cramp or brief wave of nausea alerts you to a nagging anxiety your mind had been working so hard to... Full Answer

The frontal cortex of your brain is the highly developed area that allows for problem solving. This is where sophisticated levels of thought processing occur and where information is processed so that you can understand it. Knowing why you do what you do... Full Answer

The limbic system in the core of your brain houses a lot of mood-active structures. The amygdala, in the limbic system, is the center for emotionally charged memories and persistent negative thoughts. It is active during stress, anxiety, and depression.... Full Answer

When a 2004 study asked participants to think about a favorite food, resulting functional MRI images showed that three primary areas of the brain lit up: the hippocampus, insula and caudate. The hippocampus is in the temporal lobe and filters sensory... Full Answer

 Cerebral means “of or pertaining to the brain.” Full Answer

Cognitive development is the process by which the brain develops the abilities to think, learn, reason and remember. Cognitive learning is the development of problem-solving abilities, intelligence and conscious thought. Full Answer

Scientists know that boredom-prone people may have naturally lower levels of dopamine than others who are less prone to boredom. It remains unclear which part of our brain controls the boredom response, but patients with damage to their frontal cortex do... Full Answer

Here are some ways to challenge your brain in order to improve its function: learn a new language take a class in anything that interests you learn a new skill such as painting, crocheting, woodworking, or playing a musical instrument brush your teeth... Full Answer