Fun and The Brain

"In this corrugated mass, a staggering complex symphony of electrochemical reactions plays out every second of every day. Much of it does so without a  conscious conductor. The brain makes the lungs expand with the inrush of air and the heart pump blood. It houses memories, processes sounds and sights, smells and tastes, and feelings ranging from the subtle to the sublime. "  - National Geographic, Your Brain, A User's Guide

Scientists search to reveal the mysteries of how three pounds of flesh create a universe inside the head.

The skull contains 22 bones to protect the brain. Three membranes also add protection: dura matter, arachnoid, and pia mater. Cerebrospinal fluid flows to provide cushion and nourishment for the tissues. The brain stem, oldest part by evolutionary standards, begins as an extension of the spinal chord. It controls heartbeat and respiration.

Motor neurons exist in the cerebellum at at the back and bottom of the skull. These neurons control precise movements and play a role in emotion. The diencephalon exits in the brain's center. It controls sleeping, wakefulness, digestion, and other involuntary actions.

A fifth of the blood supply is devoted to nourish the brain.

The brain reveals consciousness and the mind. A unique ability of homo sapiens involves knowing that he or she is aware of being aware. An unconscious part of the brain "wills" an action before one is aware of the will to direct it.

The brain never gets to rest. It constantly rewires and churns through daily experiences. Creation of memories creates personal and social identity.

Eric R. Kandel researched foundations of memory and felt, "learning is how you acquire new information about the world and memory is how you store that information over time."  Learning includes solving math problems. motor components such as tying shoes, and affective components  that involve feeling joy at watching a sunset.

Admire your brain's functions today. Observe and notice choices you make and how the brain functions without your choices.

If you considered your brain as someone to chat with, offer suggestions and negotiations.

Create a dialogue.

Have fun with your brain. Create new expectations. Develop ideas for the inclusion of skills not considered.

Just play!