A reflex is an involuntary and automatic body response to a stimulus, occurring without conscious thought. It's a quick, protective mechanism that bypasses the brain and is controlled by the spinal cord and peripheral nervous system.

Most of the common reflexes are a response to all the well-trained, accumulated knowledge of caution that we have internalized. It could be anything and ranges from the reflex action of abruptly withdrawing the hand as it comes in contact with an extremely cold or hot object. This action is termed as the reflex action. It has a subtle relation to instinct.

A point to be thought upon is that we all have our instincts differently depending on our past experiences and understanding. A reflex is a reaction triggered by this instinct. At times, we have no prior knowledge if the pan is hot or not. In other words, instinct has little to do with reflex.

Key Characteristics of Reflexes:

• Involuntary: You don't consciously decide to perform a reflex action. 

  
  

• Automatic: The response is triggered instantly and without conscious thought. 

  
  

• Protected: Reflexes help protect the body from harm by quickly responding to stimuli. 

  
  

• Spinal Cord Involvement: Many reflexes are controlled by the spinal cord, bypassing the brain. 

  
  

• Peripheral Nervous System: The peripheral nervous system connects the central nervous system to other body parts, enabling the reflex action. 

  
  

Examples of Reflexes:

• Knee-jerk reflex: Tapping the knee and causing the leg to extend is a common example.

• Pupil dilation/constriction: The eyes adjusting to light changes.

• Withdrawal reflex: Moving your hand away from a hot surface.

• Coughing and sneezing: Clearing the airways.

• Blinking: Protecting the eyes.