The Brain Networks

fMRI view of the brain vs. traditional understanding

Your Connectome

The advent of Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) has lead to a whole new understanding of brain anatomy and physiology. Each color in the fMRI generated image (called the Connectome) at the left, represents a network in the brain. The first three main networks are the Salience Network, the general moderater between the self focused Default Mode Network and the Central Executive Network, where executive function lives. The Limbic System Network (emotional and behavioral regulator), Dorsal Attention Network (focus and attention), Sensory-Motor Network (perceives external sensory stimuli and internal body sensations) and the Visual Network (observer and visual processor) make up the rest of the 7 main networks. Of course, the knowledge of the body will never be complete, and there are already partner networks showing themselves, as well as generalized brain<->body networks. There is always more to learn!

The worst thing for a network is to be offline, disconnected, or isolated. Small and large traumas—emotional, physical, or even viral—can throw these networks out of balance and create havoc in our lives.