5.8 REFLEX ACTION

The actions performed by our bodies are voluntary and involuntary.

Voluntary actions are the responses by the will and may not be automatic or immediate. Example: Running, walking etc.

Involuntary actions are the actions that occur automatically and without our awareness.

Examples: Heartbeat, secretion of gastric glands, peristalsis, reflexes etc.

Reflex Action

Reflex actions are also called reflexes. Reflexes are the responses to external and internal environmental changes. The responses are immediate or automatic and without the intervention of will. Certain responses are without the help of the brain. In this case the spinal cord acts as the control centre. Such a response is a reflex, which involves no conscious control.