The Synapses
In our brains, the neurons run, forming pathways in our minds. The pathways transport our thoughts and emotions in a network of billions of neurons and their connections. Each neuron connects to thousands of others, making the network enormously complex. The information between the nerve cells flows through minuscule gaps forming their synapses; the neurons do not physically touch.
Of these neurons and synapses our brains are wired. How the parts in the network function and interact determines who we are: the nature and strength of our thoughts and emotions, how we perceive and navigate the world and ourselves.
When an occurrence of some kind activates a neuron, it fires, sending forth an electrical signal which triggers a release of chemical transmitters into the synaptic gap. On the other side of the chasm, the receptors of the next neuron receive the transmitter. Depending on the signal and the transmitter, the receiving cell will fire or not fire, thereby passing the signal on or suppressing it.
The neural pathways can be very fragile, but over time they can form structures of remarkable stability. Every time an established path in the brain is lit up, the deeper it delves into our consciousness – creating highways in our minds.
The brain is plastic and is able to rewire the pathways in response to outer and inner experiences. Lost connections can be rebuilt, new ones can be created and connections that are no longer used may be deactivated. This plasticity of the brain is crucial for how we adapt to changing circumstances. Amidst this fluidity, disruptions can occur. Certain conditions can alter the balance of synaptic communication, affecting mood and behavior.
The Mending
Time. Letting it pass. Not being able to see past the moment that constitutes now, being trapped in it. But somehow, contradictorily, an inability to stay put in the present; the mind spinning out of control, running towards what might, or might not, be dark and fearsome places in times to come or times passed. And you don´t even notice it happening.
Dendrites; the branches of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons via the synapses. A never ceasing flood of neurotransmitters finally starts to wear the dendrites and their synapses down, making them detract. Parts of the brain are altered.
Nervous systems. Bodies. One and the same system, in separate organisms? The signals are passed along from one to the other. You are not certain where the sources of wellbeing or illbeing are located, where your emotions start or where they end.
Bending the mind to take a detour around an imploding existence. Healing. Hiding. How do you escape your own mind? Can you? The synapses keep firing, the signals are rushing forth.
(2024)
Alexandra Elevant 