The Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) is the part of our nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions. Things that happen automatically without conscious effort, like heartbeat, digestion, breathing, and blood pressure regulation. It works in the background to maintain homeostasis (internal balance) and respond to changes in the environment. [1]​

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The ANS is divided into two subcomponents namely:

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The parasympathetic nervous system (PNS), also known as the rest-and-digest system. Responsible for calming the body after stress, conserving energy, and maintaining long-term bodily functions like digestion, immune response, and heart rate regulation.

 

It counterbalances the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), responsible for our fight-or-flight response which prepares the body for immediate action in stressful situations.

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Dysregulation of these systems - especially an overactive SNS or an underactive PNS - can contribute to the psychosomatic symptoms of stress, anxiety and neurological disorders [2]. These symptoms include:

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• Increased heart rate & shallow breathing

• Digestive issues

• Difficulty regulating emotions & stress responses

• Poor sleep quality

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When activated, the PNS: 

• Slows heart rate

• Reduces blood pressure by promoting vasodilation

• Enhances digestion by stimulating peristalsis and enzyme release

• Improves respiratory efficiency by encouraging diaphragmatic breathing

• Reduces cortisol levels, decreasing stress and anxiety