Longshot here, but I have a portfolio company in need of experts who understand the following (if this is you or know someone, please get in touch with me):

THREE BRAINS

The concept of humans having "three brains" refers to the idea that there are major centers of neural networks in our body outside of the central nervous system. This includes not only the brain in our heads (cerebral brain) but also extensive networks in our gut (enteric brain) and heart (cardiac brain). Here's a brief overview of each:

1. Cerebral Brain (Central Nervous System):

    - Located in the head, it comprises the brain and spinal cord.

    - It's responsible for higher cognitive functions like thought, perception, planning, and decision-making.

    - It controls voluntary muscle movements and is responsible for interpreting sensory data.

    

2. Enteric Nervous System (ENS, sometimes called the Enteric Brain):

    - This isan extensivee network of neurons located in the lining of the gastrointestinal system, from the esophagus to the rectum.

    - It's sometimescalleds the "second brain" because of its size and complexity.

    - The ENS controls many functions related to digestion autonomously, without instructions from the cerebral brain. For example, it manages the processes of peristalsis and the secretion of digestive enzymes.

    - There is growing evidence to suggest a gut-brain connection where the gut can influence mood and mental health. This is partly because a significant amount of serotonin (a neurotransmitter related to mood) is produced in the gut.

3. Cardiac Brain (Heart's Intrinsic Nervous System):

    - The heart has its own intrinsic nervous system, with a complex network of neurons.

    - These neurons can sense, feel, learn, and remember, which led to the notion of the "heart brain."

    - The heart and its "brain" can influence and are influenced by the cerebral brain. The communication between the heart and the brain is bidirectional.

    - This heart-brain connection is one reason why emotions can have such a strong influence on heart rate and rhythm. It's also the basis for many of the teachings in heart coherence and the research conducted by institutions like the HeartMath Institute.

The discovery and understanding of these neural networks outside the brain have been pivotal in recognizing the intricate and interconnected nature of the human body. This understanding has led to more holistic views of health and wellness, where emotional, mental, and physical well-being are seen as deeply interconnected.