Definition: The parasympathetic nervous system is the division of the autonomic nervous system that "slows" response to stimulation. This is regulated most of the time without our conscious control, and it controls, among other things, salivation, urination, digestion and defecation.
Relaxing activities like biofeedback, meditation and yoga, stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system.
On the other hand, the sympathetic nervous system, also a part of the autonomic nervous system, controls opposing actions. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for "flight or flight" reactions to stimuli. When the sympathetic nervous system is activated, you might be running away from a predator, getting angry, or taking charge of a stressful situation.
