Hypothalamus

Hypothalamus

A part of the brain that sits below (hypo) the thalamus and is responsible for orchestrating several behaviors that are considered “maintenance” behaviors (such as eating, drinking, body temperature). In addition, the hypothalamus helps govern the endocrine system (glands that produce hormones) using the pituitary gland, and is also involved in feeling emotions and perceiving things are rewarding (for example, being in love is perceived as a good and rewarding feeling/emotion and something worth trying to obtain more of).