There are a number of body systems, networks, and substances that are constantly monitoring external and internal stress and capabilities, keeping all of the systems working. How they interact will determine which substances are secreted into the receptor molecules, affecting your current emotions and your current level of motivation. The following components are described in a conceptual format so that you can glimpse into the workings of this marvelous system.
Brain — Located in your head, this complex is composed of many components that are constantly processing information. Some are connected in circuits that can work together, and some work separately. There are logical networks and creative ones. The frontal lobe allows humans the ability to take control after monitoring patterns and deciding to change behaviors to get something done.
Conditioning for reflex actions — The control part of the frontal lobe can program the subconscious brain to conduct habitual activities.
Frontal lobe (conscious brain) — This “newer” part of the brain allows humans to understand, plan, and enjoy what they are doing; develop a strategy; make decisions; and search for and understand complex thoughts, experiences, and emotions.
Growth mode — Under normal conditions, when under normal stress for the individual, the reflex brain keeps all functions going, rebuilds damaged areas, replaces worn cells, produces needed energy, and removes waste. Peptides that are produced tell the body and mind that you feel fine and things are good.
Left brain — Located in the frontal cortex, this circuit connects components of logic, judgment, language, math, and other areas. The conscious part of the left brain can take control over our reflex brain.
Ligands — Substances (e.g., hormones, drugs) secreted by the body that bind to the molecule receptors and send and receive information about emotions, beliefs, and behaviors that can change our attitude.
Mind — An interconnected information system throughout the body with communication transmission going on constantly as information hormones (peptides) lock into receptors on billions of cells. The subconscious reflex brain monitors this flow of information and has programmed responses for specific stimuli. The frontal lobe and the right brain can be separately activated when conscious control is needed. When emotions are balanced and positive, the preprogramming has been somewhat consistent and realistic and the system runs smoothly—almost automatically.
Peptides — Ligands that connect the communication system. In the words of Candice Pert, PhD, “Peptides serve to weave the body’s organs and systems into a single web that reacts to both internal and external environmental changes with complex, subtly orchestrated responses.”[10]
Protection mode — When stress increases to a high level, the reflex brain protects itself and the organism by increasing blood flow to the limbs and to the reflex brain. At the same time, blood flow is constricted to the frontal lobe, digestive, immune, and waste removal systems. For a short period, the muscles can work at a higher level of activity. This allowed our ancestors to survive threats and can keep us running at a high level of performance until the resources run out. Then, there is an extended recovery time needed. Triggered also by the protection stress are hormones, such as cortisol, which aid in recovery and healing but are also linked to depression and low motivation.
Receptors — Specialized molecules on the surface of a cell where ligands (hormones, drugs, and other substances) can bind so that information can be sent and received—very quickly—throughout body and mind.
Reflex brain (subconscious) — A more primitive area where stimulus–response actions are programmed. Ancient patterns are embedded, which ensured survival long ago, along with programming from childhood. When we learn a new activity by doing it over and over again, we can program this reflex brain to perform automatic patterns of behavior. Here is how Bruce Lipton, PhD describes this entity: “In Reality, the subconscious is an emotionless database of stored programs whose function is strictly concerned with reading environmental signals and engaging in hardwired behavioral programs, no questions asked, no judgements made.”[11]
Right brain — This non-verbal, unconscious circuit connects areas of creativity and intuition. Mental training techniques can empower the right brain to find creative solutions, tap hidden resources, and allow you to do what you are capable of doing—even if you don’t know that you are capable of doing so.