Sympathetic vs Parasympathetic: How their Relationship Affects your Health

Let’s talk a little bit about your Autonomic Nervous System (ANS). You might have noticed it sounds like automatic, and that is actually a good way to think of it. Your ANS is responsible for all of the things you don’t have to think about; digesting your food, breathing, heart rate, regeneration/healing, and much more. Within this system there are two sub systems. These include the Sympathetic and Parasympathetic system. Below let’s talk about each, and why their relationship is crucial to your health.

 Sympathetic:

The sympathetic nervous system: is often referred to as the "fight-or-flight" response system because it prepares the body for action in times of stress or danger. When activated, the SNS increases heart rate, constricts blood vessels, and redistributes blood flow to major muscle groups, enabling the body to respond quickly to perceived threats. This division also triggers the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline and noradrenaline, heightening alertness and mobilizing energy reserves. These physiological changes can be observed as increased sweating, rapid breathing, and dilated pupils, which collectively enhance physical performance and reaction times. This system is meant to be active for a short period of time during heightened stress or immediate danger.

 Parasympathetic:

On the other hand, the parasympathetic nervous system is often called the "rest-and-digest" response system because it promotes relaxation, digestion, and the restoration of energy reserves. The PNS acts in opposition to the SNS, counterbalancing its effects and restoring the body to a calm and restful state after a stressful event. Activation of the PNS slows heart rate, dilates blood vessels, and stimulates digestion. This division also promotes the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate various bodily functions, including digestion, urination, and sexual arousal. The PNS is essential for conserving energy, promoting healing and repair, and facilitating processes that are important during periods of rest and recovery.

It's important to note that the SNS and PNS are not completely independent but rather act in coordination to regulate various bodily functions. Their balanced activity is crucial for overall health and well-being. An imbalance or dysregulation of either system can lead to health problems. For instance, chronic stress can result in an overactive SNS, leading to increased blood pressure, heart disease, and a weakened immune system. Conversely, an underactive PNS can result in digestive issues, reduced relaxation response, and difficulties with healing and repair.

In closing, many of us in todays society are struggling with an overactive Sympathetic and underactive Parasympathetic system. Our fast paced always on the go lives are causing our bodies to stay primarily in an overactive stressed state where we are unable to turn on our healing, rejuvenating, and repairing system which is the Parasympthathetic system. So what’s the solution? Stay tuned for our next blog post which will highlight various ways to bring your ANS into balance and allow you to feel more healthy and energized in your everyday life.