autonomic nervous system

controls visceral functions

The autonomic nervous system is functioning below the level of consciousness (= autonomic). This self government means that we are not able to control the functions of this part of the peripheral nervous system, even though some of its actions (like breathing) work in tandem with the conscious. The ANS affects vitally important functions like heart rate, blood pressure, respiration rate and the metabolism.

The autonomic nervous system is divided into two subsystems:

• the sympathic and the
• and the parasympathetic part.

The former equals the activating part that puts our body on alert - i.e. preparing the system for actions requiring quick responses. The parasympathic part serves as antagonist for revovery and regeneration.