HOW the Brain Works and WHY It’s Important to Keep It Health

Did you know that our brain doesn't feel pain? If we were jabbed within the brain, we wouldn't feel anything because the brain doesn't feel pain. This is because the brain itself lacks pain receptors, although the surrounding tissues and structures within the head do have them. That's why we can experience migraines or headaches, but the brain tissue itself remains pain-free.

Don’t get on your nerves! When we are stressed—meaning when we are exceptionally, exceptionally nervous—our brain shrinks. Chronic stress can lead to a decrease in the size of the hippocampus, an area of the brain significant for memory and learning. It also affects the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making and self-control. As a result, our brain works worse, affecting our cognitive capacities and emotional regulation. So, you know, we ought to relax. Practicing mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, and physical activities like yoga can significantly reduce stress levels and protect our brain.

Do you know how much our brain weighs? Well, our brain weighs approximately a kilo and a half, or around 1.4 to 1.5 kilograms (about 3 pounds). The truth is, I thought it weighed a lot less considering how powerful it is. The brain, despite its modest weight, is an energy-intensive organ, utilizing about 20% of the body's total energy supply.

Can you hear it? It's laughter! Laughter is very good for our brain. When we laugh, our brain releases endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals. This not only makes us feel happier but also reduces stress and pain. Laughter increases the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that enhances mood and reduces anxiety. When we laugh, our brain is also happy, and it makes us think more clearly and be more positive. So everyone, let's laugh more often!

The brain never rests. When we sleep, our brain is still active. During sleep, especially during the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) stage, the brain processes information from the day, consolidates memories, and clears out toxins that accumulate during waking hours. It's also during sleep that our brain helps regulate bodily functions, ensuring our heart keeps pumping and our lungs keep breathing. This process is crucial for our overall health and cognitive function. The human body is incredible, isn't it?

To keep our brain functioning at its best, we need to do a lot of physical and mental exercise. Physical exercise increases blood flow to the brain, delivering more oxygen and nutrients that help it stay healthy and grow new neurons. Activities like brisk walking, swimming, and cycling are excellent for boosting brain health. Mental exercises, such as puzzles, reading, and learning new skills, stimulate neural connections and enhance cognitive capacities. Engaging in hobbies, playing musical instruments, and socializing are also great ways to keep our brain sharp.

Moreover, a healthy diet plays a vital role in brain health. Consuming foods rich in antioxidants, good fats, vitamins, and minerals provides energy and aids in protecting the brain from oxidative stress. Foods like berries, nuts, fish, and leafy greens are particularly beneficial.

The brain sends and receives chemical and electrical signals throughout the body. Different signals control different processes, and your brain interprets each. Some make you feel tired, for example.

So, to sum it up: our brain doesn't feel pain, it can shrink under stress, it weighs about a kilo and a half, laughter is great for it, it never really rests, and it thrives on physical and mental exercise. Remember, the more we use it, the better it works.

Farewell, happy friends! See you in the next happy learning video. Keep laughing and taking care of your incredible brain!