Somatic Vs Autonomic Nervous System: Understanding the Differences for Trauma-Informed Training
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Understanding Somatic and Autonomic Nervous Systems: A Comparative Outlook for Trauma Training
Unveiling the Complexities: The Somatic vs Autonomic System
Within the intricacies of our biological world, exist two distinct branches of the human nervous system: the somatic and the autonomic systems. Every movement we make and every emotion we experience are governed by these complex networks. This article aims to equip readers with an understanding of these systems and how knowledge about them can contribute to trauma-informed training.
Key Points Covered:- Overview of Somatic and Autonomic Systems- Key Differences between Somatic and Autonomic Systems- Understanding Trauma through the lens of these systems- Importance of these systems in Trauma-Informed Training- FAQ about Somatic and Autonomic Systems
Overview of Somatic and Autonomic Systems
Both the somatic and the autonomic system are parts of the peripheral nervous system. While the somatic system deals mostly with voluntary actions and the external environment's sensory input, the autonomic system operates on a subconscious level, controlling the body's internal environment through involuntary functions like heart rate and digestion.
Diving Deep into the Somatic System
The somatic system, rooted in the words 'soma', which means body, primarily governs the skeletal muscles. It receives and processes sensory info, allowing the body to respond to changes in the external physical environment.
Exploring the Autonomic System
Contrastively, the autonomic system, derived from Greek word 'autonomous', meaning 'self-govern', is responsible for maintaining our body's internal balance, controlling organ function, and responding to stress or relaxing stimuli. This system further bifurcates into the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems that are responsible for 'fight or flight' and 'rest and digest' responses, respectively.
Key Differences between Somatic and Autonomic Systems
Understandably, the main differences between the somatic and autonomic systems are in voluntary versus involuntary control, the aspects of the body they control, and the types of responses they generate to stimuli.
| Somatic System | Autonomic System || :------------- | :------------- || Controls voluntary actions | Controls involuntary actions || Governs skeletal muscles | Regulates organs and glands || Responds to external stimuli | Maintains internal balance |
Understanding Trauma through the lens of these systems
Much research has pointed to how traumatic experiences get 'stored' within the body, affecting both somatic and autonomic functioning. For instance, trauma can result in hypervigilance—a state of continuously high arousal—a clear indication of an overactive autonomic nervous system, specifically the sympathetic system.
Somatic vs Autonomic Systems in Trauma-Informed Training
In trauma-informed training, understanding these systems can be instrumental. It gives practitioners insights into how the body associates certain environments or stimuli with traumatic experiences, allowing them to tailor therapeutic strategies accordingly. For instance, somatic therapies focus on body sensations to process trauma, while trauma-informed yoga might aim to regulate an overactive autonomic system.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What are some examples of functions controlled by the somatic system?The somatic system controls functions like walking, grabbing objects, and other voluntary movements of skeletal muscles.
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What happens when the autonomic system does not function correctly?When the autonomic system fails, it can lead to disorders like orthostatic hypotension, neurogenic bladder, or dysautonomia.
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How does knowing the difference between somatic and autonomic systems contribute to trauma training?By understanding these systems, trainers can help individuals regulate their body responses, process traumatic experiences, and cultivate resilience and healing.
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Can the autonomic system's response to stress be changed?Yes, through therapies like trauma-informed yoga and meditation, individuals can learn to regulate their autonomic 'fight, flight, and freeze' response.
By comprehensively understanding the somatic vs autonomic systems, we can not only gain fascinating insights into our own bodily functions, but it can also prove immensely beneficial for practitioners and individuals dealing with trauma. With increasing research pointing to the body's immense influence on mental health, this knowledge becomes even more essential.
Ready to start your career as a trauma informed care practitioner? Contact us at info@aurainstitute.org or (424) 400-3048 to begin your journey as a certified trauma practitioner and make a positive impact in trauma care.