What is Autonomic Nervous System arousal?
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is the portion of the nervous system that controls the body’s visceral functions, including the heart rate, the movement of the gastrointestinal tract and the secretion by different glands, among many other vital activities. It is well know that mental and emotional states directly affect the ANS. When activated, the parasympathetic nerves slow heart rate, and the sympathetic nerves accelerate it. These changes are influenced by emotions thoughts and physical exercise. Our changing heart rhythms affect not only the heart but also our brain’s ability to process information, including decision-making, problem solving and creativity. They also directly affect how we feel.
