Explain the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

The autonomic or involuntary part of nervous system controls the functions of the body carried out automatically i.e. initiated in the brain below the level of cerebrum. Although stimulation may not occur voluntarily, the individual may be conscious of its effect, e.g. an increase in the heart rate. Some of the physiological activities controlled by the ANS are:

1) Rate and force of heart beat

2) Secretion of the glands of alimentary canal

3) Contractions of involuntary muscle

4) Size of pupil of the eyes