The document summarizes the organization and function of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). It describes that the ANS operates without conscious control to regulate functions like cardiovascular, respiratory and digestive systems. The ANS has two divisions - the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions. The sympathetic division activates the body during emergencies through the release of neurotransmitters like epinephrine and norepinephrine. The parasympathetic division acts to reduce heart rate and metabolic activity during rest. Preganglionic neurons in the CNS synapse with ganglionic neurons that innervate organs to regulate functions like digestion and heart rate.