Description: The natural effects of aging on your body and mind can have serious consequences on your quality of life. A slowing metabolism and a decreased sexual appetite are just a couple of the realities that will affect you as you age. Our bodies constantly adjust to the environment by interpreting signals sent to the brain. The hypothalamus area of the brain functions as the command center and sends hormonal signals to the pituitary gland. In response to hypothalamic signals, the pituitary gland sends out hormones to numerous tissues throughout the body to stimulate and fine-tune their activity.