Your nervous system helps regulate your body, even when you don’t realize it. It controls actions like breathing and heart rate, as well as movement and feeling. But how does nervous system regulation work?
Your nervous system is split into two parts: the central nervous system CNS and the peripheral nervous system PNS. The CNS controls your brain and spine, while the PNS handles communication between your brain and the rest of your body.
A crucial part of nervous system regulation is communication between neurons. Neurons are special cells in your body that transmit signals. When a neuron is activated, it sends a message to another neuron or muscle, causing it to react. This process is what allows you to move and feel.
Your body also has various reflexes that are regulated by the nervous system. For example, when you touch something hot, your body automatically pulls away to avoid injury. This is due to a reflex arc, which bypasses the brain and quickly activates a response in your spinal cord.
Nervous system regulation is essential for keeping your body functioning properly. It helps you move, feel, and react to the world around you. So next time you take a deep breath or feel your heart beating, remember that it’s all thanks to your nervous system.