Mapping the Brain's Mind-Body Connection and Movement Control Systems.

New research published in the journal Nature shows that the parts of the brain that affect movement are tied into networks that are responsible for thinking and planning and influence several involuntary bodily functions, including blood pressure and heartbeat. Researchers discovered nonmovement areas in the brain that did not become active during movement but became active when the person thought about moving. This study is showing the important connection between the mind and body, and perhaps more specifically, the brain and body.