The Enteric Nervous System

Did you know you have a brain in your tummy? Inside your gut, there are millions of tiny nerves that talk to the brain in your head all day long. This is why you feel butterflies when you are nervous or get a gut feeling about a choice. Your body and thoughts are so connected that your stomach can actually tell your head how to feel. Taking care of your body is a way of taking care of your soul because they share the same feelings.

Your gut is not guessing. It has its own brain. When it speaks, listen. The belly knows things the head has not figured out yet.

The ENS: a mesh of neurons governing the GI tract, capable of autonomous signaling with 30+ neurotransmitters including 95% of the body's serotonin. Bidirectional Vagus nerve communication creates feedback loops where physical states (gut biome, inflammation) dictate psychological states (anxiety, depression). Undermines the Cartesian view of a localized mind-pilot.

SOUND: The rhythmic gurgle of digestion in a quiet room.

SMELL: Peppermint tea: it instantly makes stomach and mind feel calmer.

TASTE: Dark chocolate: feel the good vibes hit your system.

TOUCH: Hand on your belly, deep breath: feel the movement.

SIGHT: A map of the human nervous system: the dense web around the stomach.

BODY: The heavy or light feeling in your core when you think of something scary or happy: the second brain speaking.

Music: Boxes by Ben Rector

Music: Issues (feat. Ice Cube, Anderson .Paak & Dem Jointz) by Dr. Dre

Music: Maps by Maroon 5

Part of Mind & Body — PHILOSOPHY — Education Revelation