We possess some control over our nervous system, though not complete control.
While much of our nervous system operates unconsciously, directing essential functions like breathing and heart rate, we can exert conscious influence over certain aspects. The degree of control varies among individuals, with many people never fully exploring their potential in this area.
Divisions of the Nervous System
To understand the extent of control, it's helpful to understand the divisions of the nervous system:
- Central Nervous System (CNS): Brain and spinal cord. Largely responsible for higher-level processing and conscious thought.
- Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Nerves extending from the CNS to the rest of the body. This can be further divided into:
- Somatic Nervous System: Controls voluntary movements of skeletal muscles. This is where we have the most direct control.
- Autonomic Nervous System (ANS): Regulates involuntary functions like heart rate, digestion, and breathing. The ANS has two branches:
- Sympathetic Nervous System: "Fight or flight" response.
- Parasympathetic Nervous System: "Rest and digest" response.
How We Exert Control
While we can't directly command our heart to beat faster (though biofeedback training may offer some level of influence), we can influence the nervous system through:
- Voluntary Movement: We consciously decide to move our limbs, control facial expressions, and speak. This is the most obvious form of control via the somatic nervous system.
- Breathing Techniques: Conscious control of breathing can influence the autonomic nervous system, promoting relaxation (parasympathetic) or alertness (sympathetic). For example, deep, slow breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, lowering heart rate and blood pressure.
- Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices can help us become more aware of our bodily sensations and emotional states, and potentially influence our autonomic nervous system responses.
- Biofeedback: Using technology to monitor physiological processes (like heart rate or skin temperature) and learn to consciously influence them.
- Cognitive Control: Our thoughts and beliefs influence our nervous system. For example, positive thinking can reduce stress hormones, while negative thoughts can increase them.
- Lifestyle Factors: Diet, exercise, and sleep profoundly impact the nervous system's function. Choosing a healthy lifestyle indirectly exerts control.
Limitations of Control
It's important to acknowledge that our control is not absolute:
- Reflexes: Involuntary, rapid responses to stimuli (like pulling your hand away from a hot stove) bypass conscious control for faster reaction times.
- Basic Survival Functions: The autonomic nervous system prioritizes survival, sometimes overriding conscious desires. For example, your body will regulate breathing even if you try to hold your breath indefinitely.
- Disease and Injury: Conditions like stroke or nerve damage can impair both voluntary and involuntary nervous system function.
- Individual Variation: Some people may naturally have greater or lesser control over certain aspects of their nervous system.
Conclusion
While we don't have complete command, we are not simply passive recipients of our nervous system's actions. By understanding its different parts and utilizing techniques like conscious breathing, mindfulness, and biofeedback, we can cultivate greater awareness and influence over our physical and mental states.
