Peripheral NS

Divisions of Motor Outfunction

Somatic Nervous System (SNS)

• Control: Voluntary muscle movements

• Connections: Skeletal muscles, enabling conscious activities (e.g., kicking a ball)

• Function: Oversees activities controlled consciously

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

• Control: Involuntary and "automatic" functions

• Connections: CNS to organs (e.g., heart, stomach, intestines)

• Function: Controls unconscious/involuntary activities (e.g., respiration, heartbeat)

Divisions of the Autonomic Nervous System

Sympathetic Nervous System

• Function: Prepares body for "fight or flight" response

• Response to: Emotional stress

• Action: Sends blood toward heart, brain, and muscles

Parasympathetic Nervous System

• Function: Maintains homeostasis

• Action: Brings body back from "fight or flight" state

• Goal: Conserves energy, facilitates "rest and recovery"