Human brain, illustration. The front of the brain is at top, in this view from below. Structures visible include the brainstem (lower centre) and the cerebellum (stripey) either side of the brainstem. Also seen here are the frontal lobes (upper left and right) and the temporal lobes (centre left and centre right). Here, the occipital lobes are located behind the cerebellum. The brain is the nerve centre controlling bodily function and thought. It interprets nerve signals received from the rest of the body and initiates the appropriate responses. The brainstem deals with subconscious functions, such as breathing and blood pressure. The cerebellum controls balance, posture and muscle coordination. The folded surface is the outer part of the cerebrum, the region responsible for intelligent thought, language, conscious movement and memory.