Autonomic Nervous System Explained: Why You Feel Stuck in Stress (and How to Reset)

What is the autonomic nervous system—and why does it matter so much for stress, anxiety, and overall wellbeing?

In this episode, Ruth Lorensson and Tom Pals break down the autonomic nervous system in a clear, practical way—exploring how the sympathetic (fight-or-flight) and parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) systems work together to support homeostasis.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in stress, overwhelmed, or unable to “switch off,” this conversation will help you understand why. Rather than seeing stress as the problem, Ruth and Tom reframe the sympathetic nervous system as a protective ally—and explain what happens when it dominates the system.

You’ll learn:

• How the autonomic nervous system regulates stress and recovery
• Why “balance” isn’t the goal—dynamic homeostasis is
• What keeps the body stuck in fight-or-flight
• How the brain and body work together to restore regulation

This episode offers a new way to understand your nervous system—so you can move from chronic stress into greater resilience, stability, and wellbeing.

New to the AHA Podcast? Start here:

• Autonomic Nervous System Explained: Why You Feel Stuck in Stress (and How to Reset)

• Interoception Explained: How Your Brain and Body Work Together to Heal Stress

• Why You Don't Feel Safe (Even When You Are): Nervous System Explained

• The Truth About Homeostasis: Why Balance Is a Myth