The human brain is the most profoundly intricate organ. It is divided into two hemispheres, each containing countless neural pathways through which all of our actions and each aspect of our personality and thoughts are channeled. The left side of the brain is responsible for the right side of the body, and so the right brain for the left body. In addition to the control of physical actions, the hemispheres also manage their own unique sectors of the thought processes. The left side deals with logic and rational thought, while the right oversees emotions and abstract thought.
Despite the immense potential of the brain, scientific studies have shown that the average person tends to use only one hemisphere of their brain at a time. Not only that, but when we get settled into a repetitious daily routine, our brains become so accustomed to using the same sets of neural pathways that much of the remaining pathways are effectively 'turned off' for simple lack of use. This leads us to the rut of habitually going through the motions of life without actively engaging ourselves in our day.
When this becomes a habit, the brain settles into a routine which can make it difficult to efficiently control multiple actions or processes simultaneously. Intricate problem-solving skills, bodily coordination, and emotional/logical or abstract/concrete balances can all be adversely affected by falling into a routine of single-hemisphere activity. This phenomena has also been shown to be connected to elevated stress levels and a decreased ability to cope with stress.
One of the simplest remedies that has been shown to correct the problem of single-hemisphere brain function and activate the brain's full potential is to engage in exercises which cause both hemispheres to work together in unison. In particular, getting the limbs and various body parts to move separately yet cohesively, each with their own tasks but connected as one unit, has been shown to be most beneficial. This is especially true when the limbs are moved across from their natural side into the opposite side's territory, such as crossing the right hand over to the left shoulder. This is because of an interesting phenomena in which the control of the limbs actually switches hemispheres as the limb enters the physical space of the other hemisphere, i.e. although the left brain hemisphere normally controls the right arm, control is switched to the right hemisphere as soon as the arm moves across to the left side of the body.
Among the most effective and all-around healthy of these are Taiji (Tai Chi) and Qigong. The movements and postures utilized in these healing arts cause the brain to harmonize, relax, and work fluidly as the many parts of the body are simultaneously guided through the motions. Coordination and thinking skills are improved, and stress levels drop and become more manageable as the mind gains harmony and learns to work in sync -- all leading to a more balanced, enjoyable, and fulfilling life.
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