Understanding Nervous Systems 🧠

The central nervous system (CNS) is the body’s command center. It includes the brain and spinal cord, which work together to control movement, sensation, thought, and emotion.

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is part of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) responsible for regulating involuntary bodily functions, such as heart rate, digestion, respiratory rate, and pupillary response.

The sympathetic and parasympathetic systems are the two main branches of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which controls involuntary functions like heart rate, breathing, and digestion.

Understanding the difference between these systems is essential, as both play key roles in behavior, sensation, and mental health.

The HPA axis plays a critical role in regulating stress responses, mood, digestion, immune function, and energy storage and expenditure in the body.