Neural Pathways

Brain-circuit activity related to inflammation correlates linearly with CRP levels. Repeatedly used neural pathways become more likely to fire again in the future. Repeated use strengthens neural pathways and leads the brain to allocate more resources and synapses to the practiced function. Inflammation affects specific brain regions and circuits rather than producing only nonspecific sickness. Inflammation can activate threat-related regions involved in anxiety, irritability, defensiveness, and aggression. Inflammation is associated with decreased prefrontal cortex metabolic activity, which may impair concentration, motivation, and decisions. Inflammation is associated with reduced reward-circuit activity that can manifest as anhedonia, fatigue, and low motivation. During the 21-day period, an old neural pathway is replaced by a new one. Hands-on physical activities provide rest to the analytical brain by activating different neural systems. Without emotional reinforcement, the neural pathway to a painful memory shrinks from disuse. Once forgiveness removes the emotional charge, the pathway to a painful memory loses its pull and resonance. When stressful situations arise, the bra…