The Science of Stress: Sympathetics and Parasympathetics

The sympathetic nervous system is our usual default. This helped us survive in our caveman days when we were always on the look-out for danger. Most of us are no longer under this constant physical danger, so we must practice relaxation techniques to switch from the sympathetic to the parasympathetic system.

Yoga, deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can help to slow our breathing and heart rate, and lower our blood pressure, which activates the parasympathetic system, allowing us to rest and relax.

(find deep breathing and meditation videos in the mindfulness and meditation section of this website)