The brain is generally the most complex part of the human body. it’s the seat of intelligence, senses, body movement and control of behavior, as well as the source of all qualities that define humanity. Generally speaking, the brain has three main parts. The cerebrum controls movement, body temperature, touch, vision, judgement, sensory abilities and emotions. The midbrain focuses on hormones (which control emotional reactions, responses and stability), breathing. consciousness, cardiac systems, involuntary actions, swallowing, eyes and mouth movement. It also focuses on sensing heat, noise and pain. Finally, the cerebellum allows for voluntary muscle movement, fine motor movement and maintaining a balance in equilibrium.

Modern science also suggests there are total of three brains, or control systems, in the body. In addition to the “head” brain, there are also control systems in the “gut” and “heart”. The “gut brain” has 100 million neurons operating independently. These neurons play an important role in self preservation, mobilization, responses to challenges and determining a core sense of self. Hormones in the “gut brain” send messages to the rest of the body. Often, senses from the “gut brain” are referred to when people say things like “listen to your gut”, “listen to your instincts” or “my intuition tells me”. The “heart brain” also has 39 million neurons operating independently. These neurons are directly tied to expression of emotions, values and interpersonal connections. This part of the body is often referenced when saying “follow your heart”.