parasympathetic nervous system

American  

noun

1. Anatomy. the part of the autonomic nervous system consisting of nerves and ganglia that arise from the cranial and sacral regions, functioning in opposition to the sympathetic nervous system, and producing effects such as slowing the heart rate and contraction of the pupils.

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parasympathetic nervous system Scientific  

/ păr′ə-sĭm′pə-thĕt′ĭk /

1. The part of the autonomic nervous system that tends to act in opposition to the sympathetic nervous system, as by slowing down the heartbeat and dilating the blood vessels. It regulates the function of many glands, such as those that produce tears and saliva, and stimulates motility and secretions of the digestive system.

2. Compare sympathetic nervous system

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

parasympathetic nervous system

By focusing on a single anchor—like your breath or a phrase—you shift your brain out of its fight-or-flight mode and activate your parasympathetic nervous system, which controls your body’s “rest and digest” functions.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 27, 2026

But during certain forms of high-ventilation breathwork, the body is breathing deeply which also activates the parasympathetic nervous system responsible for rest and relaxation, she explained.

From Salon ● Apr. 23, 2025

"The average heartbeat slows down, and the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system, which plays an important role in controlling the internal organs, increases."

From Science Daily ● Oct. 10, 2023

The vagus nerve is the key player in the parasympathetic nervous system, which is the “rest and digest” system that calms the body during times of low stress.

From Scientific American ● Jul. 4, 2023

It requires just a bit of time, a mirror and some positive affirmations — and a 2017 study found it to be an impactful self-compassion exercise that soothes the parasympathetic nervous system.

From Los Angeles Times ● May 22, 2023

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