Part 3: Autonomic Nervous System Regulation: How Chiropractic Adjustments Balance Stress and Support Mental Clarity

The "Auto Pilot" of the Brain - The ANS

In this final post, we will explore the connection between autonomic nervous system regulation and brain function, specifically how spinal adjustments help balance the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS controls involuntary bodily functions (think "automatic"), such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate. It is also closely linked to emotional responses, stress management, and mental clarity—all of which are regulated by the frontal lobe of the brain.

The Autonomic Nervous System: The Body’s Stress Response System

The autonomic nervous system is divided into two branches: the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS).

Sympathetic: "Fight or Flight"

Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS): 

Often called the "fight or flight" system, the SNS is activated in response to stress and prepares the body for action.

When activated, the SNS increases alertness, breath rate, heart rate, and energy levels. If you've ever had sweaty palms when you are nervous, the SNS was at work!

Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS):

The "rest and digest" system, which calms the body and promotes recovery and relaxation. Examples include reduced heart rate, relaxed/meditative state, defecation (going to the bathroom), and even sexual arousal.

Parasympathetic: "Relaxed"

How does this relate to Chiropractic Adjustments?

When the spine is misaligned, it can disrupt the balance between these two systems, leading to sympathetic dominance (chronic stress) or insufficient parasympathetic response (poor recovery). This imbalance can create physical and emotional problems, including anxiety, poor focus, and emotional dysregulation—all of which are linked to frontal lobe function.

Since the frontal lobe plays a central role in managing stress and regulating emotions, chiropractic care’s influence on the autonomic nervous system may indirectly support improved frontal lobe function. Patients often report feeling more relaxed, clear-headed, and emotionally balanced after chiropractic adjustments—reflecting the impact on both brain function and autonomic regulation.

Adjustments help you feel relaxed and emotionally-balanced

Chiropractic Care and Autonomic Nervous System Balance

Chiropractic care helps restore balance to the autonomic nervous system by correcting vertebral subluxations that may be interfering with nerve flow. By promoting better spinal alignment, chiropractic adjustments support the parasympathetic nervous system, which can:

• Reduce stress levels: Lowering the body’s stress response, leading to a calmer mind and better emotional regulation.

• Improve mental clarity: A balanced autonomic nervous system helps the brain remain clear-headed and focused.

• Enhance mood regulation: Spinal adjustments help regulate the nervous system, leading to better control over emotions and less susceptibility to stress or anxiety.

Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Brain Function

In this three-part blog series, we’ve explored how chiropractic care can enhance brain function through spinal manipulation, promote neuroplasticity for better cognitive performance, and support autonomic nervous system regulation for emotional and mental clarity. Together, these benefits create a powerful synergy that supports optimal brain health, particularly in areas like focus, decision-making, emotional regulation, and overall mental clarity—all of which are controlled by the frontal lobe.

Chiropractic care is not just about pain relief; it’s about helping the brain and body function at their highest potential. Whether you’re seeking better mental clarity, improved focus, or a reduction in stress, chiropractic adjustments can offer a holistic approach to achieving optimal brain function and overall well-being.