THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

Includes all the nerves in the brain and spinal cord, controls actions and reactions triggered by our senses, and also controls the simple functions our body does e.g. sleeping, walking, eating. And more complex functions such as thinking, memory and attention.

Controls higher mental functions and basic life processes.

Controls reflex actions and automatic behaviours.

Consists of all the nerves leading to/from the brain and spinal cord to other parts of the body. Divides into the Somatic and Autonomic nervous systems.

The nerves in this system transmit information about external stimuli, from the skin, muscles or joints to the CNS. This is how we feel pain, temperature, pressure etc. They also carry impulses from the CNS back to the original body part. The nerves also control voluntary and involuntary movements.

The nerves of this system run to and from the internal organs checking processes sush as:

• respiration
• heart rate
• digestion

It is partiularly involved in emotions such as fear and stress. (Subdivides into Parasympathetic and Sympathetic).

Control body activity in low levels of arousal, and initial stages of sexual activity.

Controls raises arousal, mobilises body in times of activity e.g. fight or flight.