86Thousand400: The Nervous System Simplified

3 Functions performed by the nervous system:

Sensation (gather info), Analysis & Response

Central Nervous System (CNS) = Brain & Spinal column

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) = All the nerves outside of the brain and the spinal chord. The main function of the PNS is to connect the CNS to limbs & organs serving as communication relay going back and forth between the brain & the extremities. Not protected by bones of spine & skull, which leaves it exposed to toxins. (Huge importance of chiropractic - whereby they take care of the nervous system and not just back pain).

The PNS is divided into the somatic & autonomic nervous system

Somatic Nervous System: Associated with skeletal muscle voluntary control of body movements and consists of afferent and efferent nerves.

Efferent Nerves: Send out commands from the CNS to the body, stimulating muscle contraction. The signal must be clear for muscles to function properly. Any interference can cause a number of issues within the body which again is why a healthy spine/nervous system is so key to one’s overall health.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS): Division of the peripheral nervous system that influences the internal organs. Acts largely unconsciously & regulates bodily functions eg Heart Rate, Digestion, Respiration rate, Pulpillary Response, Urination & Sexual Arousal. (All beyond our control – to a point)

ANS is regulated by the hypothalamas. Includes control of respiration, cardiac regulation, vasomotor activity & certain reflexes eg coughing, sneezing, swallowing and vomiting

Most autonomous functions are involuntary but they can often work in conjunction with the somatic nervous system which provides voluntary control.

ANS has two branches: the sympathetic and the parasympathetic nervous system

Sympathetic Nervous System: Flight or fight "Quick response mobilising system" (Noreprinephrine/Adrenaline)

Parasympathetic Nervous System: Rest & digest "More slowly activated dampening system"

Being a Personal Trainer often the focus is on muscles, however having worked alongside chiropractors and discovering how vital the nervous system is with regards to health and energy levels it really has become a huge game changer with regards to our training programs.

For us it has almost become the things beyond our control in the form of nerve impulses, neurotransmitters, neurotrophic factors, thoughts, feelings, emotions, stress and anxiety levels that has lead us to believe that exercising is just as vital for the brain as well as the body as a whole.

Again all these areas will be looked into in future weeks...