In early childhood and infancy, brain development begins with the most fundamental and deepest parts of the brain, which control essential bodily functions. This includes the senses, breathing, heart rate, temperature regulation, stress activation, sleep, and appetite. This part of the brain, located at the back of the head near the neck, manages the most vital functions we could not live without. It is here that we perceive and store everything our senses experience—what we hear, smell, see, touch, and taste.

This part is known as the sensory brain.

​

As we move past the initial stages of infancy, the brain matures further. The next level up governs emotions, safety, trust in others, memory, and our likes and dislikes. This is known as the emotional brain. Here, we accumulate both positive and negative experiences, memories of what has made us happy and secure, as well as what has caused fear, anger, or sadness. This area can sometimes become overwhelmed.

​

In adolescence and adulthood, the brain continues to develop, particularly the uppermost and front-most part: the thinking and reasoning brain. This part is responsible for language, clear thinking, analyzing experiences, and planning and executing tasks. It is here that reason resides, enabling us to learn and reflect on our learning.

In a way, we are born with a basic operating system that has fundamental functions, and as we develop, we gradually upgrade to more advanced versions. When the Alarm Goes Off. 

​

When something triggers a strong reaction, such as stress, fear, or a reminder of past difficulties, an alarm goes off in the emotional brain. It senses discomfort and alerts the neighboring sensory brain (which is biologically even more crucial) that something is wrong.

​

This is how our minds operate. Our emotions have a strong memory. When painful emotions are triggered, we automatically enter a state of alert to prevent the recurrence of past suffering. This is a remarkable and useful trait if there is real danger.

However, when living with chronic pain or enduring prolonged stress, the autonomic nervous system can remain in a constant state of alert, as if the stove is always on. This is a normal response in such situations. When something evokes painful memories, it is natural and important for the body and nervous system to react to protect against further harm.

 

Yet, the emotional brain can sometimes perceive situations and impulses as more dangerous than they actually are. Consequently, there may be times when you go into alert mode even if there is no real threat.