What Part of My Nervous System is Activated When I Experience Anxiety

When experiencing anxiety, the sympathetic nervous system, part of the autonomic nervous system, is activated, initiating the "fight-or-flight" response, which prepares the body for action.

Sympathetic Nervous System Activity Connects To Your Anxiety

The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is one of two branches of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which controls involuntary bodily functions like heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate. The SNS is specifically responsible for the body's "fight-or-flight" response, which is an evolutionary adaptation that prepares the body to deal with perceived threats or danger.

Managing Overactive Sympathetic Nervous System Activity

Managing an overactive sympathetic nervous system through activating the parasympathetic system through:

• Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, and progressive muscle relaxation can help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is the body's "rest and digest" system. This counters the fight-or-flight response, helping you calm down and return to a more balanced state.
• Mindfulness practices and exercise can also help regulate the body's stress response over time.

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