Reptilian Brain

The reptilian brain, also called the R-complex, is the oldest part of our brain, responsible for basic survival functions. It controls instinctual behaviors like fight-or-flight responses, territoriality, dominance, and basic body functions such as breathing and heartbeat. This part of the brain developed early in evolution and is shared with many reptilian species, hence the name. It operates mostly on instinct and reflexes, without involving higher thinking or reasoning. Essentially, the reptilian brain helps ensure our survival through automatic responses to stimuli in our environment.