It's All in Your Mind - Literally

[michelle1963]

I am fascinated by the brain ~ both its biology and the mind that arises from it. As science understands it currently, consciousness is an effect of our 200 billion neurons and the myriad of synaptic connections.
*One synapse, by itself, is more like a microprocessor -- with both memory-storage and information-processing elements -- than a mere on/

Comments

[suzanne1945]

"A single human brain has more switches than all the computers and routers and Internet connections on Earth." This is absolutely astounding. What a construct to impress up on oneself how truly amazing the human brain is!

Train Your Mind, Change Your Brain, by Sharon Begley was a fascinating book, showing the malleability of the brain. One might laugh(as SNL did many years ago)at the practice of making daily self affirmation statements or a daily "counting your blessings", but they really do seem to change out look and satisfaction with life. If one wishes a more satisfying existence, it takes exercise and discipline just as a more toned body does. Unfortunately many people would rather complain about their existence, rather than do the work for either a fit mind or body.

[michelle1963]

I don't know if such people regard it as too much work, or find taking that level of personal responsibility scary. Or perhaps they are comfortable in their dissatisfaction?

[caarianna]

Thanks for sharing the clip -- she's an amazing person.

The brain is amazing and we're only beginning to learn how it functions and how to understand it, how to guide it consciously ... which is a bit strange in and of itself in that the brain is capable of thinking about itself as a separate entity from its own thoughts, in order to assist itself to function better.

[michelle1963]

I know right? It's actually rather mind-boggling. :)

[ehowton]

Mom was right. "Fake it until you make it" really works!

[michelle1963]

Yes, she was!

For a long time I have regarded maintaining and improving my mind as every bit as important as my body - although the two go hand in hand, in that strengthening one can have positive effects on the other.