Glossary
Brainstem
The oldest and innermost region of the brain, responsible for automatic survival functions.
Example:
If a person suffers damage to their Brainstem, they might struggle with basic life-sustaining processes like breathing or maintaining consciousness.
Cerebellum
Located at the rear of the brainstem, it coordinates voluntary movements, balance, and plays a role in nonverbal learning and memory.
Example:
A gymnast's precise balance and fluid movements on the balance beam are largely thanks to the coordinated efforts of their Cerebellum.
Medulla
A part of the brainstem that controls vital life-sustaining functions such as heartbeat and breathing.
Example:
During a deep sleep, your Medulla continues to regulate your heart rate and respiration without conscious effort.
Pons
A part of the brainstem that helps coordinate movements, regulate sleep, and control arousal.
Example:
The Pons plays a role in the vivid dreams you experience during REM sleep, helping to regulate that stage of the sleep cycle.
Reticular Formation
A nerve network extending from the brainstem through the thalamus, crucial for controlling arousal and alertness.
Example:
When an alarm clock blares, your Reticular Formation quickly kicks in to snap you out of sleep and into an alert state.