Unlocking the Power of the Somatic Nervous System: Understanding Its Control and Functions
Welcome to the Aura Institute, where we offer advanced trauma-informed training so that you can have the tools to transform the lives of those affected by trauma.
Our curriculum is accredited for continuing education by prestigious organizations like the APA and Board of Nurses, ensuring practitioners receive top-notch training and credentials.
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.
Deciphering the Intricacies of the Somatic Nervous System: Its Control and Functionality
Unlocking the Power of the Somatic Nervous System: Understanding Its Control and Functions
The somatic nervous system, part of our fascinating and complex nervous structure, plays a vital role in our everyday lives. The question asked often, "What does the somatic nervous system control?" finds its answer in many of our voluntary bodily activities – standing, running, writing, manipulating objects, and more. This article takes a comprehensive look at its control, functions, and importance in maintaining our overall mental health.
Key Points Covered:- Understanding the somatic nervous system- Its control and functions- Role in mental health- Training in somatic nervous system- FAQs
The somatic nervous system (SNS) is a fundamental component of the peripheral nervous system, the part of our nervous system that interacts with the physical world around us. Sensory and motor neurons compose this system controlling voluntary muscular activities and transmitting sensory information to the central nervous system.
The Science Behind SNS Control
Every time we make a voluntary movement, we’re using our somatic nervous system. Information from your brain gets sent to the relevant muscles, telling them to contract or relax, hence causing movement. Somatic motor functions involve actions like speaking, walking, or throwing a ball. It gives us the ability to undertake fine motor skills and balance, allowing us to execute precise activities.
However, the somatic nervous system isn’t just about motor controls. It also plays an important role in how we perceive the world around us. The sensory nervous system, which is a part of SNS, provides crucial insights into our external environment by evaluating its various stimuli like heat, light, sound, touch, and press.
Somatic Nervous System in Mental Health
One compelling facet of the somatic nervous system is its role in our mental health. Somatic psychology proposes that changes in the SNS could impact our psychological well-being. Disturbances in the functioning of the SNS often lead to the manifestation of symptoms of stress, anxiety, and trauma.
Contemporary psychotherapeutic approaches underline the fact that any form of mental distress manifests not only psychological but also physiological responses. Studies have suggested that increased understanding and control over our SNS could potentially control, reduce, or even prevent various psychological disorders.
“The mind and body communicate constantly. What the mind thinks, perceives, and experiences is sent from our brain to the rest of the body.” - Dr. James Gordon, M.D., Harvard Medical School
Reducing mental health issues and promoting overall well-being involve harnessing the potential of the Somatic Nervous System. These techniques are the foundation of somatic therapy, a form of therapy recognized to treat trauma and other stress disorders. Interested in learning more about these techniques? Visit our Somatic Experiencing Training course.
Training and Education in Somatic Nervous System
The efficacy of Somatic methods in managing mental health has led to a growing interest in its specialized training. Providers such as Aura Institute offers comprehensive psychology courses that delve deep into understanding the mind-body connection. It equips you with the skills and knowledge required to use the central and peripheral nervous systems to combat mental health problems effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What activities are controlled by the Somatic Nervous System?
A1. The SNS controls all voluntary muscular systems within the body and the five external senses (sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell).
Q2. How Does Training in Somatic Nervous Systems Help?
A2. Training in the somatic nervous system can broaden your understanding of the connection between physical sensations and mental states, which is invaluable for diagnosing and treating mental health disorders.
Q3. Can Improved Understanding of Somatic Nervous System Aid Mental Health?
A3. Yes, improved understanding of the SNS can potentially help reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms related to trauma by enhancing our volitional control over physiological processes.
In conclusion, the innate power of the Somatic Nervous System finds application in myriad aspects of our lives and mental health. The aura of the subject only intensifies as we delve deeper into its functionalities and implications. There's no denying that understanding and harnessing its power can pave the way towards more efficient management and recovery from many psychological ailments. For further information, consider exploring our comprehensive health and wellness courses.
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.