2 Minutes
How is it that we know a thing, that the convergence of perceptions from multiple senses materializes as an awareness that such and such a thing is what it is. At the level of the machinery of the brain, awareness can be viewed as the simultaneous convergence of data, which is termed Synaptic Timing. Information, a map of the known, is established on the simultaneous convergence of electrical potentials from myriad neural sources. Essential to this function is a timing mechanism that facilitates this event repeating as much as forty or more times per second. We can observe this mechanism of timing using sensitive electrical equipment (EEG) and the observed signals are collectively described as Brain Waves.
Synaptic timing is an attribute of more complex, advanced neurology. The more “primitive” neurology of our gut functions (Enteric Nervous System) is not established on the simultaneous convergence of signals, simply waiting until a genetically preconfigured electrical threshold is reached to fire. As animals gained complexity in their ability to sense and to do a broader range of appropriate actions, more complex mechanisms for processing their sensory data emerged. These added “carrier waves”, which we call Brain Waves to the neurology for processing data into useful information, and choosing a course of action
Brain Waves enable the matrix for deciding the most beneficial action to develop and change over time, simply by shifting the carrier wave frequency, thereby managing the convergence of signals either sequentially or collectively. When signals converge sequentially the threshold for processing the incoming data remains unmet, and further processing ceases in that specific circuit. As we learn we build information processing pathways that perform specific functions, using nearly the same neurology but with a multitude of outcomes, by slightly shifting the frequency of brain wave activity in that local region. This constant, simultaneous shifting of brain wave frequencies is easily observed in an EEG plot, as in the example to the right.
Moving data around in the brain is the role of the Corpus Callosum. This “White Matter” facilitates the flow of data between disparate neuronal circuits, that can be separated both regionally and by the evolutionary layer (eg: Reptilian Brain – Neo-Cortex). The convergence of data at a neuron is “fine-tuned” by Glial Cells which sheath neurons – specifically the gaps between these cells called “The Nodes of Ranvier”. Data passes more slowly across these gaps than along the sheathed part of the neuron. It has been observed that Glia can dynamically alter the size of this gap within seconds, either advancing or retrogressing the time that data converges for processing into useful information. There is a Scientific American article discussing the significance of the Nodes of Ranvier in Autism here:
WHITE MATTER MATTERS
INTEGRATION
These two calibration functions, as well as perhaps others unknown to this writer, enable the brain to learn and adapt in novel ways to new information. This information originates from our internal and external states, experience and predictive abilities. It is dynamically integrated by the mechanisms elucidated above, resulting in a course of action. The expression of this action is contextual and can only be evaluated for efficacy against the intent of the action – how successfully it expresses that intent. “Intent” is a distinct discussion which is undertaken here:
INTENT
Our awareness and expression of intent (actions) are the output or integration of our cognitive functions. Given that this output is adjustable (we are constantly learning) the question of the character and qualities of our intent has great significance.
Activities that alter or improve the capacity of our brains to integrate data will provide both immediate and long term benefits. The NEUROMOTOR ASSESSMENT is designed for this purpose.