AP Psychology Brain Project

Cerebrum (Cont.)

Temporal Lobe: a part of the brain that lies roughly above the ears. Is linked with memory, hearing, emotion and language.

Occipital Lobe: portion of the brain lying at the back of the head. Main center for visual processing.

The temporal lobe will enable us to hear the cars, traffic or even the sound of the wind when out for a run.

Thanks to our occipital lobe, we are able to interpret visual stimuli, looking at the way the tide moves to and fro when going on a jog at the seawall. We are aware of our surroundings and environment.

Corpus Callosum

Amygdala

Citations

The function of the Corpus Callosum is to communicate or relay information between both brain hemispheres, maintain good eye movement and vision as well as arousal and attention. So when you are running, the corpus callosum will help by allowing you to be focused and alert while running. You will become aware of your surroundings.

Bailey, R. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://biology.about.com/od/anatomy/p/corpus-callosum.htm

The Amygdala is a tiny almond-like structure that is used to allow us to feel certain emotions. Mostly aggression and fear. Whilst leisurely running, the body is dutifully sending alarmed impulses back to the brain, reporting on the readiness of the various organs and muscles. This is because in case of an emergency, your muscles are ready to act.

Widrich, L. (2014, February 14). In What Happens to Our Body When We Exercise and How Does It Make Us Happier. Retrieved from https://www.fastcompany.com/3025957/work-smart/what-happens-to-our-brains-when-we-exercise-and-how-it-makes-us-happier

Arendal, L. (2000, May 26). In The Emotional Brain. Retrieved from http://brainconnection.brainhq.com/2000/05/26/the-emotional-brain/

Cerebrum

Pituitary Gland

The cerebrum is the largest and most highly developed part of the brain. It is associated with higher thought, understanding and sense. It is divided into four parts:

The pituitary gland is a pea-sized structure and is responsible for many functions. It is known as the body's 'master gland'. The gland is used to secrete and release many types of hormones throughout our bloodstream. Running will allow the pituitary gland to filter antidepressants throughout the body -- making you feel better and happier.

Hippocampus

The hippocampus is located in the brain's medial temporal lobe, near the center of the brain. Its function is related to storing long-term memory, recalling memories and facts. In terms of relation to running, we learn to memorize or observe the surroundings and environment (such as road signs or pedestrians).

Found at the base of the brain

Parietal Lobe: associated with movement, touch, recognition and body position

Frontal Lobe: associated with reasoning, speaking, muscle movements and judgement. When running, your frontal lobe would be very engaged.

Cerebellum

It is the parietal lobe which allows the movement of the body in space, coordinating body movement while running, or climbing over obstacles.

Say for example you are running, but there are two lanes up ahead. One in which is the shortcut, but is filled with brambles. On the other hand, the other lane, although longer, is clear of any obstacles. The frontal lobe, using the functions of judgement and reasoning will make the decision.

The cerebellum is the part of the brain at the top part of the brain stem. Its function is to coordinate and regulate muscular activity. It also regulates motor activity and coordinates voluntary movements. When running, it is obvious that your legs will need coordination in order to move in a fluid movement. This will result in smooth and balanced muscle activity.

Medulla Oblongata

The medulla oblongata, simply known as medulla is located at the base of the brainstem. The medulla helps regulate breathing, heartbeat, digestion, sneezing and multiple autonomic functions.

Due to the constant muscle movement in your body when running, your heartbeat will quicken. This is because of the medulla. Your heart will speed up; pumping more blood and oxygen throughout your body. Which is never a bad thing!

Hypothalamus

The function of the hypothalamus is to maintain a relatively stable equilibrium (homeostasis). From blood pressure, to electrolyte balance and body weight. If one were to run, the hypothalamus will respond by trying to keep the skin's temperature normal, water balance stable and transports more oxygen into the brain and body; offering circulation to insure that swelling does not occur.

Thalamus

AP PSYCHOLOGY

The thalamus is the brain's sensory switchboard. It directs messages to the sensory areas in the cortex and transmits replies to the cerebellum and medulla.

Let's say you were running on the pedestrian lane. Suddenly, you ran into a spiderweb that was concealed by the shade. The thalamus will then receive information from your sensory cortex and transmitting it to the cerebellum/medulla, telling yourself to remove the spiderweb off your body.

Justine Wong

Block: 2-4