1.2: Overview of The Nervous System

Spinal Cord

Bundle of nervous tissue that runs from the base of the brain down through the center of the spine. (Connected to the brain)

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The main processing center for your body, made up of the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The network of nerves that lies outside your brain and spinal cord, connecting the central nervous system to the rest of the body.

Somatic Nervous System

(A part of the peripheral nervous system) This controls voluntary movements and processes sensory information from the outside world.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

The part of your system that controls involuntary internal body processes.

(Ex. Heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and body temperature)

Sympathetic Nervous System

(A part of the autonomic nervous system) This controls the boys;s involuntary flight or flight response during times of stress, danger, or physical activity.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

This controls the body’s ability to relax, rest, and digest by slowing down high-energy functions and conserving energy.