In this lesson, we explore the physiology underlying activation of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
Understand how the autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulates the sympathetic and parasympathetic responses, including the stress response, fight-or-flight response, and relaxation response, plus discuss the fundamentals of polyvagal theory.
Explain how the nervous system responds to stress, including examples of positive triggers. Describe what occurs when stress is perceived as excessive or threatening, and identify conditions that activate the fight-or-flight response. Examine how the fight-or-flight response can be beneficial, as well as when it becomes harmful. Describe the relaxation response and practices shown to support its activation. Discuss the core concepts of polyvagal theory and how they relate to autonomic nervous system function.
fight-or-flight response, hyperarousal or acute stress response, polyvagal theory, relaxation response
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