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Awake and asleep, we are constantly using our brains to think, feel, remember, dream and survive. It might only weigh about 3 pounds in most adults, but this organ has a heavy responsibility! How will you use your brain today?
Introducing the Three Main Structures
Our brain is composed of three main parts – the cerebrum, cerebellum and brain stem. The cerebrum is what we typically think of when we hear the word “brain.” It’s the largest part and contains many wrinkles and folds to make the surface area even larger. The cerebrum is used for important functions like thinking, learning, perceiving our environment and experiencing emotions.
Underneath the back portion of the cerebrum is the smaller cerebellum, which contains many tight folds. Latin for “little brain,” the cerebellum helps us get around. It plays a role in coordinating balance, posture and muscle movement.
Finally, the brain stem connects the brain to the spinal cord. It regulates many of the subconscious automatic tasks that we need to survive. It is thanks to the brain stem that our breathing and heart rate remain steady and we continue to swallow even in our sleep!