Autonomic nervous system

Higher parasympathetic increases movement options

The Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) is a branch of the nervous system that automatically regulates the functioning of internal organs and body systems. Traditionally, it is divided into two main branches – the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems – but it also includes the enteric nervous system, which is associated with the digestive tract.

Both main branches operate continuously and simultaneously, each with its specific role:

• Inhalation is more connected to the sympathetic nervous system, as it slightly accelerates bodily functions.

• Exhalation activates the parasympathetic system more, which calms bodily processes.

Sympathetic Nervous System

– Activates the body in stressful situations ("fight or flight").
– Increases heart rate, dilates pupils, inhibits digestion, increases blood flow to muscles, raises muscle tone, and makes movements more rigid.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

– Responsible for rest, recovery, and energy conservation ("rest and digest").
– Lowers heart rate, stimulates digestion, constricts pupils, and relaxes soft tissues.

Enteric Nervous System

– Also referred to as the "second brain" of the digestive system.
– Controls the functioning of the digestive tract (bowel movement, enzyme secretion, etc.), operates quite autonomously, but is connected to both the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems.

In rehabilitation ("rehab") training, understanding how the autonomic nervous system works is very useful. For clients in whom the parasympathetic nervous system dominates, we often observe signs of hypotonia, lower blood pressure, and slower reflexes. For them, training that involves learning to control body movement is extremely beneficial. Static positions through yielding, static positions through overcoming resistance, and slow movements with a focus on optimal positioning in a given context are very welcome in the initial phases of training.

On the other hand, stiffer clients benefit greatly from activating the parasympathetic nervous system, as it lowers the muscle tone of superficial muscles and facilitates easier movement of the locomotor system.

With such clients, we often observe:

• Breath holding during even simple movements (like a forward bend, bodyweight lunge, etc.)

• Stiff movement and significantly reduced range of motion

• A greater ability to generate force