In today's digital age, artificial intelligence (A.I.) is revolutionizing nearly every aspect of our lives. From personal assistants like Siri and Alexa to smarter algorithms powering everything from social media to healthcare, A.I. is undeniably convenient. However, as we become increasingly reliant on these technologies, unexpected consequences may be lurking beneath the surface, especially when it comes to our brains. One of the most alarming concerns is the potential impact of A.I. on the hippocampus, a critical part of the brain responsible for memory and learning. Best-selling author Gabe Lyons said there’s a danger in losing our dependency on human knowledge. Relying on technology inhibits our ability to process information well and forces us to rely on something artificial instead of thinking for ourselves.

With just a few keystrokes or a voice command, we can access virtually any piece of information. While this is incredibly efficient, it also means that we no longer need to remember things the way we once did. With A.I. handling so much of our cognitive workload— such as reminding us of appointments, giving directions, answering questions, and even generating content— our brains may not need to work as hard to retain and recall information. The brain, however, doesn’t simply “forget” the need to work. As with any muscle, the hippocampus requires regular exercise to stay strong. When it’s underutilized due to external aids like A.I., it may begin to shrink over time, diminishing its ability to store and retrieve memories effectively.

The hippocampus helps us retain new information, recall past experiences, and understand our environment. Over time, scientists have learned that the hippocampus is highly sensitive to external factors, including stress, lack of sleep, and even social interactions. Studies have shown that the more we rely on digital devices, the more likely we are to experience lapses in memory. While A.I. has numerous benefits, it’s important to strike a balance to ensure it doesn't negatively impact our brain health. By actively engaging in cognitive exercises, reducing our dependence on external devices, and taking care of our overall well-being, we can safeguard our brain's memory capabilities and ensure that A.I. remains a helpful tool rather than a crutch.

POLYVAGAL THEORY

Studies have shown that Americans today have fewer close friends compared to 30 years ago. In a world increasingly mediated by A.I., how the brain responds to digital interactions and virtual stimuli is vital for feeling a sense of belonging.

The Polyvagal Theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, explains the relationship between the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and emotional regulation. The theory focuses on the vagus nerve, which regulates several functions, including heart rate, digestion, and emotional responses, by reacting to environmental cues of safety or threat.

If we feel that we have little control over what A.I. presents to us, it can activate the dorsal vagal response, leading to feelings of dissociation or emotional shutdown.

Chiropractic care has been shown to mitigate the negative impacts of modern technology and promote better memory, focus, and cognitive resilience.

Lyons, Gabe. “What A.I. Wants.” THINQ NextGen Conference, 8-9 Nov. 2024, Nashville, TN. Lecture.