The Brain and Nervous System

We can think of the brain as a powerful computer in our head that analyzes our thoughts and senses, and controls the body’s functions and our nervous system. The spinal cord is like a network that relays messages and impulses to every part of the body. Billions of neurons connect with each other to send and receive messages in the brain and spinal cord. Neurons working together are responsible for every decision, every emotion or sensation felt and every action taken. Messages are passed from neuron to neuron through synapses – small gaps between various cells that produce and secrete proteins and chemicals called neurotransmitters. There are millions of connections between neurons just within the spinal cord.

We use the power of the brain to study the brain. Yet, will we ever completely understand it? Our brain is about the size of a grapefruit, weighing about 3 pounds. This squishy blob of tofu-like substance is made up of hundreds of billions of nerve cells that allow us to make music of exquisite beauty, design computers, seek a cure for cancer, fall in love and to seek to learn more.


This report is not a diagnosis. We hope this information can guide you toward improving your life.

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