Do you know why you don't need to remember to breathe?

As you read these lines, here on the Mega Curious website, the air goes in and out of your lungs without interruption. This action is so automatic that it seems that we only become aware when we are trying to catch our breath, right?

The brain, the organ responsible for controlling breathing, knows how much oxygen we need for the body to function. This kind of natural autopilot has a lot to do with how our breathing works.

When we inhale air, our lungs absorb the oxygen needed to produce energy. The residual product of this process, the gas known as carbon dioxide, is expelled when we exhale. So far, pretty basic, right?

The cool thing is that our brain is constantly monitoring the levels of these two elements in our body. If there is an imbalance, the nervous system alerts and asks the body to take action to regain harmony. For example, when we exercise, we need more energy - so the brain requires you to breathe faster, catching more oxygen and expelling more carbon dioxide.

The part of the brain responsible for always monitoring these levels is the oblong medulla, also known as the spinal bulb, or just the bulb. Located in the lower portion of the brainstem, this organ establishes communication between the brain and spinal cord. Its interior contains a kind of breathing center, which houses the receptors responsible for detecting carbon dioxide levels.

Functioning as a conductor of nerve impulses, the bulb is responsible for involuntary vital functions that in addition to breathing, also invigorate the heartbeat and some reflexes such as vomiting. This organ is so important that a blow to this region can cause instant death (hey!).

Still, as much as all this control happens automatically, that doesn't mean we can't control our breathing. How many times have you no longer breathed in, or held air in your lungs any longer?

Our emotions also unconsciously affect our breathing pattern: for example, when someone has a panic attack, or anxiety, and begins to have difficulty breathing. In such cases, it is recommended to try to normalize the breathing rate so that oxygen levels normalize and the feeling of discomfort gradually decreases. Breathing in a paper bag can help to perceive this rhythm and help control the crisis.

As much as you feel that at some point you have forgotten how you breathe, your brain will never forget you. So the next time you remember to breathe, whether you're climbing a ladder or trying to catch your breath after a run, don't forget the wonderful work your bulb does!