The inner brain

Structures deep within the brain control emotions and memories. Known as the limbic system, these structures come in pairs. Each part of this system is present in both halves of the brain.

• The thalamus acts as a gatekeeper for messages passed between the spinal cord and the cerebrum.
• The hypothalamus controls emotions. It also regulates your body's temperature and controls functions such as eating or sleeping.
• The hippocampus sends memories to be stored in areas of the cerebrum. It then recalls the memories later.