Why the comparison to coral?

The brain and the ocean share many similarities. They are both incredibly deep and complex, with mysteries beyond our comprehension. They both inspire creativity and ideas, often leading to breakthroughs through contemplation. The boundaries of our knowledge of both are vast and limitless, with countless secrets left to uncover. They are constantly changing and unpredictable; ocean currents shift, and the brain's neural pathways adapt to environmental and experiential stimuli. Both serve as a humbling reminder of our limited understanding of life and the importance of striving for knowledge and understanding. The brain is made up of interconnected pathways, similar to the branches of a coral. Every part of the brain is connected like a network through axons, dendrites, and nerves. Similarly, coral comprises countless polyps forming numerous coral "branches" connected by various nerve nets. This connectivity benefits the brain and coral, allowing for better communication among different parts and quick responses to external stimuli. Both systems' intricate and complex structures enable them to thrive in their respective environments. Both coral in the ocean and the cerebellum in the body play crucial roles in their respective systems. Coral is vital for maintaining a healthy ocean ecosystem as a foundation for other creatures to feed and reproduce. The cerebellum is responsible for movement, motor learning, and cognition. It coordinates movements, processes visual and sensory information, and is crucial for balance and coordination. Both structures have intricate inner networks that can be disrupted by environmental disturbances or disease, which can have long-term effects. Ultimately, they are both essential components of interconnected ecosystems that must operate correctly for life to thrive.

References/citations

 Image references; 

Cerebellum connects to brain’s reward system. (2019, February 4). National Institutes of Health (NIH). https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/cerebellum-connects-brains-reward-system

Approach to MRI brain. (2015, December 16). LearningNeurology.com. https://learningneurology.com/diagnostic-tests/approach-to-mri-brain/

Website references;

Horn, A. (2019, December 20). Your mind is like the ocean. A brief introduction to transcendental meditation. Medium. https://itsandrewhorn.medium.com/your-mind-is-like-the-ocean-a-brief-introduction-to-transcendental-meditation-cee31f456851WNational Ocean Service. (2019). 

What Are Corals? - Corals: NOAA’s National Ocean Service Education. Noaa.gov. https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/education/tutorial_corals/coral01_intro.html

Jackson, K. (n.d.). Week 3: Brain, MRA Head, Cranial Nerves [Review of Week 3: Brain, MRA Head, Cranial Nerves]. Retrieved June 3, 2023, from https://pulseradiologyinstitute.instructure.com/courses/95/files/12642?module_item_id=10956

Cleveland Clinic. (2022, July 7). Cerebellum: What It Is, Function & Anatomy. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23418-cerebellum

Leopold, C. (2018, August 31). Cerebellum: Anatomy, function, and disorders. Www.medicalnewstoday.com. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/313265#function

First Look MRI. (2019). How to Read an MRI of the Brain | First Look MRI. In YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2YsuVzg-Gg


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