Brain research brings up the question as to whether the lowest functions of brain and mind are running and ruining a person’s life.

Deep in the center of our brain are two earlier brains, 
1. the reptilian / “snake” brain and 
2. the early mammalian/limbic brain.

Illustration and brain data from:
The Triune Brain In Evolution (Plenum Press, 1990)
by Dr Paul MacLean, 
head of Brain Evolution and Behavior department of the (U.S.) National Institute of Mental Health.

This Reptilian or “snake” brain (green) is the “reactive” brain that causes:
· fight, flight, or freeze reaction, 
· physical and sexual aggression or submission
· domination & control of territory and of others 

The Limbic brain (red) is the “emotional” brain, which causes: 
· anxiety & depression, 
· fear and emotional aggression, 
· sustained anger & desire for revenge, 
· on-going stress response

During stress, these lower brain functions are continually able to shut down the higher brain functions, which are in the newest or outer brain - neo-cortex– the gray & white matter. (Blue) 

In this neo-cortex, we see the highest functioning of the human brain/mind (from brain research):
· intuition & creativity
· flexibility of perspective and wholistic thinking
· logic and analysis, 
· openness to other possibilities, 
· long-range planning and problem solving, 

This higher brain is how we make sense of and give meaning to our life and world. But, it can only function in a non-hostile, unagitated state of mind. The Relaxation Response developed by Dr. Herbert Benson at Harvard, meditation, and other stress reduction methods help to keep the lower brains from maintaining control.

Having worked in the field of stress management for several years, I have found that forgiveness brings a potential to the mind of peace and relaxation. This is because the situations and actions which cause the turmoil of the mind have been alleviated so that a person can function at his or her highest human level and fulfill her or his deepest potential and desire – mentally, physically, and spiritually.

Dr. Jim Dincalci 

Copyright 2002,2006