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Proventus
Autonomic System
The part of the peripheral nervous system that acts as a control system functioning largely below the level of consciousness, and controls visceral functions.[1]
It is classically divided into two subsystems: the parasympathetic nervous system and sympathetic nervous system [1] both supply essentially the same organs but cause opposite effects. This is because their activating chemicals, or neurotransmitters, are different
The systems are associated with:
- Diameter of the pupils.
- Digestion.
- Heart rate.
- Maintaining homeostasis in the body.
- Perspiration.
- Respiration rate.
- Salivation.
- Sexual arousal.
- Urination.
Most of the actions are involuntary, however some such as breathing work in tandem with the conscious mind.
Notes
Although the autonomic nervous system is considered to be involuntary, this is not entirely true. A certain amount of conscious control can be exerted over it as demonstrated by practitioners of Yoga and Zen Buddhism. During periods of meditation, these people are clearly able to alter a number of autonomic functions including heart rate and the rate of oxygen consumption.
1. autonomic nervous system (Merck)