Definition
parasympathetic
adjective
- relating to or denoting the part of the autonomic nervous system that promotes rest, digestion, and recovery; opposite of sympathetic
Usage: medical/anatomical term; commonly used in physiology and health contexts
Examples
- The parasympathetic nervous system slows your heart rate and aids digestion.
- Deep breathing activates your parasympathetic response, promoting relaxation.
- Parasympathetic stimulation causes the pupils to constrict.
- The vagus nerve is a major component of the parasympathetic nervous system.
- Meditation helps engage the parasympathetic nervous system for stress relief.