The Nervous System

The Nervous System(s)What it doesControls & regulates everything a body doesElectrical signals sent from brain to the rest of the body and vice versa

The Two SystemsCentral Nervous System (CNS): the brain and the spinal cordThe highway of the bodys transmitted informationSpinal cord contained inside your vertebrae (for protection)

The Two SystemsPeripheral nervous system (PNS): carries information throughout the rest of the bodyTo and from organs (like skin), and tissues (like muscle)

Voluntary & Involuntary ActivitiesSomatic: part of peripheral nervous system that controls skeletal muscles, Ex.: movement, like throwing a ballAutonomic: part of peripheral nervous system that controls internal biological functionsEx.: breathing, digestion, heart beat, etc.Also controls the bodys response to emergenciesNeuronsCells that make up the neural pathways of the nervous system.They pass electrical signals from one to the next.

NeuronsSignals pass from the axon of one neuron to the dendrites of the next.The space between two neurons is called the synapse

Synapse: Mind the GapNeurotransmitters: chemicals messengers sent across the synapse to pass the electrical impulse from one neuron to the nextOut-of-balance neurotransmitter levels often lead to prolonged emotional/psychological problemsSome neurotransmitters also function as hormones in the blood stream

Synapse: Mind the GapEndorphins: weakens feelings of pain, makes you feel good.Dopamine: involved in reward-based learning.Chemical dependency on drugs like cocaine is often because they help the body release dopamine.Illegal drugs tend to hurt the bodys ability naturally release healthy levels of dopamine in the long run.Unlocking your NeurotransmittersEndorphins: extended exercise, spicy foods, feelings of love, sexual stimulation.Dopamine: brain exercises, solving puzzles, Sudoku,Serotonin (low levels impacts depression): eat a banana, carb-rich comfort food in moderationNeurotransmittersSome neurotransmitters also function as hormones in the blood streamNervousEndocrineMessages sent quickly, through nervesEffects dissipate quicklyMessages are slower, sent via bloodstreamEffects linger longer (leave you feeling amped up, in a funk, etc.)