True!
Just above the spinal column is the medulla oblongata, and it controls several important automatic tasks. Breathing is one of the most crucial. Rhythmic breathing is regulated, along with variations due to changing body needs, such as running. You do not have to think about breathing faster; the medulla takes care of that for you. Heart rate is another vital function that is centered in this area. The medulla will increase or decrease the beat based on information from other parts of the body. The medulla also determines when blood vessels should constrict to reduce blood flow.