Somatic and Autonomic Nervous Systems

The Peripheral Nervous System consists of two divisions
1. Somatic Nervous System - which consists of afferent, sensory cranial and spinal nerves that connect somatic receptors to the central nervous system. They are the nerves that inform the brain and body about an internal or external stimulus. The somatic nervous system also consists of efferent, motor cranial and spinal nerves that connect the central nervous system to skeletal muscles. These nerves inform the body, (skeletal muscles) of the decision of how to correct the problem. The somatic nervous system is considered to be involved with voluntary(consious) activities of the body.
2. Autonomic Nervous System - which consists of autonomic sensory neurons, these are the intergrating centers within the Central Nervous System. The autonomic nervous system also consists of autonomic motor neurons, these would send the response to the rest of the body. The autonomic nervous system usually operates without conscious knowledge so it is considered to be involuntary. The autonomic nervous system has control and regulates the activity of smooth muscle, cardiac muscle, and the glands.

We need both of these nervous systems to function properly in order to respond properly internal and external stimulus's so that way the body remains in homeostasis. These nerves help to regulate body temperature and the the body temperature is to high or to low the receptors send the impulses to the appropriate nerves to help the body to regulate and control the unwanted conditions.