Can you *really* remember that?

I recently read a book recommended by a friend: Mindsight, Daniel Seigel

This is interesting in that it is a book by a more mainstream psychologist that at least acknowledges the significance of lower parts of the brain. However, Daniel still advocates the primacy of what he describes as 'cortical override'; or using the cortex to 'manage' your reaction to sensations and feelings emanating from the lower brain.

So whilst I certainly wouldn't recommend his approach for anyone looking for a curative treatment for their mental health issues, I do like his introduction of the concepts of 'intrinsic' and 'explicit' memory. 

Daniel explains that intrinsic memories are held in the lower parts of the brain. He explains that it may not be possible to express memories laid down in this section of the brain through words or images as these parts of the brain are not capable of such sophisticated expression.

Extrinsic memories on the other had are held in the neocortex. These do have imagery and words associated with them. Thus, extrinsic memories can be expressed through language and other artistic means. 

I believe that it is this type of 'extrinsic' memory that most people think of when they hear the word 'memory'.

In the course of my journey through regression therapy, I'm often challenged with 'how can you remember your birth?' 

If we think in terms of these two types of memory, the answer is simple: I have no explicit memories of my birth whatsoever, however, I have deep, valid intrinsic memories of my birth.

Intrinsic memories aren't always easy to access, but they are in me and they are real. 

For a more thorough explanation of brain function try this ;)