What is the autonomic nervous system?
We talk a lot about the autonomic nervous system, but what exactly is it? This is the branch of your nervous system that controls unconscious tasks. So, it’s controlling the things we don’t think about like our heart beating, lungs breathing and intestines absorbing nutrients from our food. The ANS is made up of two opposing branches; the sympathetic branch and the parasympathetic branch.
The sympathetic branch is our body’s “fight or flight” system. This is activated when the body perceives stress and its goal is survival. When the sympathetic nervous system is activated, our body sends blood to our muscles, increasing sweat production, heart rate, and blood pressure. The sympathetic nervous system will turn off digestion and immune function to respond to the immediate threat. Our state of awareness and energy levels will increase as our body mobilizes fuels to “fight or flight”. This system is incredibly important, but should only be active at appropriate times like for a sports game or big presentation.
The parasympathetic branch is our body’s “rest and digest” system. This is activated when the body is in a safe environment. When the parasympathetic system is activated, our body increases digestion and promotes immune function and growth. Our body will promote a restful state focused on growth and healing. This system is very important and should be active when we are eating dinner and unwinding at night.
Both systems are incredibly important, so proper balance is key for a healthy body. Neurologically based chiropractic care promotes balance in the ANS to help you achieve optimal health and wellness. Schedule your first visit at Sota Chiropractic today!
