Definition:
The parasympathetic nervous system is a part of the nervous system in our body that helps to control automatic functions that keep us calm and relaxed. It originates in the brain stem and the lower part of the spinal cord. It works opposite to the sympathetic nervous system, which prepares the body for "fight or flight" situations. Essentially, when the body is in a calm state, the parasympathetic nervous system is at work.
You can use the term "parasympathetic nervous system" mainly in discussions related to biology, health, or psychology. It is a technical term, so it's best used in academic or medical contexts.
In more advanced discussions, you might talk about the balance between the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems and their impact on overall health. For example: - "Chronic stress can lead to an imbalance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, affecting health."
In general usage, "parasympathetic" refers specifically to this aspect of the nervous system and does not have other common meanings.
There are no direct synonyms for "parasympathetic nervous system," but you can refer to it simply as the "calming system" in informal discussions.
While there are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs related to the "parasympathetic nervous system," here are some related terms you might find useful: - "Kick in": This phrase can mean to start or become active. For example, "When you relax, your parasympathetic nervous system kicks in."
Understanding the parasympathetic nervous system is important for learning about how our body responds to stress and relaxation.