The Power of the Limbic System: Understanding Our Survival Instincts
Summary
In this article, we explore the limbic system, an ancient part of our brain responsible for our survival instincts. We discuss how nonverbal communication through gestures has been hardwired into our paleo circuit and how the limbic system is constantly scanning for potential threats. We also delve into the vestigial behaviors that have been passed down through evolution and how they are universal across cultures.
Table of Contents
- The Limbic System: An Introduction
- Nonverbal Communication and the Paleo Circuit
- Vestigial Behaviors and Survival Instincts
- Assessing Thoughts, Feelings, and Fears
- Conclusion
The Limbic System: An Introduction
The limbic system is a complex network of structures in the brain that is responsible for our emotional responses and survival instincts. It responds to the world without thinking and can be activated by various stimuli, such as temperature changes, smells, and sounds. The limbic system is always active, even when we are sleeping or writing, and is constantly scanning for potential threats.
Nonverbal Communication and the Paleo Circuit
Nonverbal communication through gestures has been with us for millions of years and is hardwired into our paleo circuit. Our ancestors had to adapt to survive in environments with predators, and freezing in place was a behavior that allowed them to avoid being detected. The limbic system is elegant and exquisite in its simplicity, and it has evolved to ensure our survival as a species.
Vestigial Behaviors and Survival Instincts
The limbic system in humans is responsible for survival and has vestigial behaviors that have been passed down through evolution. These behaviors include the fencing posture, which protects us from rolling over, and the orientation reflex, which helps us respond to changes in imagery or pattern. The limbic system also orients us away from anything we perceive as hurtful or unpleasant.
Humans tend to tuck their thumbs in when scared or threatened, which may have evolved to prevent them from catching on objects. Bringing a hand to the neck and the suprasternal notch is another common behavior seen in humans and predator animals, as this area is where predators go to suffocate their prey.
Assessing Thoughts, Feelings, and Fears
The speaker discusses how humans have developed instinctive behaviors to protect themselves when they are struggling or facing something terrible. These behaviors, such as covering the neck or mouth or tucking the chin in, come from the limbic system and are universal across cultures. These behaviors can be used to assess others and determine their thoughts, feelings, or fears.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the limbic system is a powerful and ancient part of our brain that is responsible for our survival instincts. It has evolved over millions of years to ensure our survival as a species and is constantly scanning for potential threats. The vestigial behaviors that have been passed down through evolution are universal across cultures and can be used to assess others and determine their thoughts, feelings, or fears. Understanding the power of the limbic system can help us better understand ourselves and others.
