Central Nervous System (CNS)

The CNS includes the brain and the spinal cord. It is the control center of the body, processing information and sending instructions.

Five Main Parts of the Brain:

• Cerebrum: Largest part, responsible for thinking, memory, and voluntary movements.
• Cerebellum: Controls balance and coordination.
• Brainstem: Controls vital functions like breathing and heartbeat.
• Thalamus: Relays sensory information to the brain.
• Hypothalamus: Regulates body temperature, hunger, and emotions.

Spinal Cord

The spinal cord is a long bundle of nerves that runs down your back. It connects the brain to the rest of the body and allows communication between the CNS and the PNS.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The PNS includes all the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. It carries messages between the CNS and the rest of the body, including limbs and organs.

It has two main parts:

• Somatic Nervous System: Controls voluntary actions like moving muscles.
• Autonomic Nervous System (ANS): Controls involuntary functions like heartbeat and digestion.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

The ANS is further divided into:

• Sympathetic System: Prepares the body for “fight or flight” during stress.
• Parasympathetic System: Calms the body down and conserves energy.