Which part of the autonomic nervous system generally works to calm the body after periods of stress?

The parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for calming the body after stressful events. This component of the autonomic nervous system functions to promote a state of rest and relaxation following times of anxiety or stress. When activated, the parasympathetic nervous system reduces heart rate, enhances digestion, and facilitates energy conservation, effectively countering the heightened physical arousal caused by the sympathetic nervous system during periods of stress.

In contrast, the sympathetic nervous system prepares the body for 'fight or flight' responses, increasing heart rate, dilating pupils, and redirecting blood flow to muscles in reaction to stressful situations. The central nervous system, while crucial for processing and transmitting information, does not directly regulate the body’s autonomic functions like calming after stress. Finally, the somatic nervous system controls voluntary movements and does not play a role in autonomic responses related to stress.