In the symphony of bodily functions, the nervous system takes center stage as the conductor, orchestrating every thought, sensation, and movement in your body.
Look at it this way – imagine your nervous system as the CEO of your body, overseeing operations, making split-second decisions, and ensuring seamless communication between different departments (organs and systems). It regulates everything from basic reflexes to emotional responses. It’s the reason you flinch when something’s hot or your heart races when you’re excited.
When this conductor falters, the orchestra falls out of sync.
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A poorly regulated nervous system can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, reduced cognitive abilities, and even physical ailments. Conversely, a well-regulated system promotes resilience, sharper mental faculties, and emotional balance. It’s the difference between feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands or navigating them with calm confidence.
Do you feel as if your nervous system may be frazzled? Here are 7 simple techniques to help you regulate your nervous system. Keep in mind, you will only reap the rewards if you commit to self-regulating frequently.
Don’t bash deep breathing, it works
Deep breathing isn’t just for yogis; it’s a science-backed method to soothe your nervous system. When you take slow, deep breaths, you activate the vagus nerve, signalling your body to relax. It’s the body’s built-in stress-relief mechanism, instantly lowering your heart rate and stress levels.
ALSO SEE: Just keep breathing – discover the Wim Hof breathing method for wellness
Get yourself unknotted
Ever tried the systematic tensing and releasing of muscles? It’s like a massage for your nerves. By sequentially tensing and then relaxing muscle groups, you send a clear signal to your nervous system: it’s time to unwind. This practice not only eases physical tension but also promotes mental calmness.
Try this quick Progressive Muscle Relaxation guide to get started:
Take the plunge (or the shower)
Cold exposure, be it through cold showers or icy dips, jolts your nervous system into action. Initially, it will trigger a fight-or-flight response that you’ll need to work and breath through, but once you adapt, it prompts a soothing parasympathetic response that results in improved stress resilience and a mood boost.
If you’re interested in cold plunging, go straight to the source and clue yourself up on how to do so on YouTube – there are hundreds of guided plunges and videos explaining why and how to do so correctly.
ALSO SEE: Meet the Waterblommetjies: Cape Town’s committed cold plungers
Go to the mental gym
Mindfulness isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a powerful tool to rewire your nervous system. Consistent practice of mindfulness rewires the brain, promoting emotional regulation and reducing the amygdala’s (the brain’s stress center) reactivity. It’s like a mental gym, strengthening your ability to stay calm under pressure.
ALSO SEE: Can mindfulness enrich your life?
Take up Yoga or Tai Chi
These practices are more than elegant poses or slow-motion movements; they’re nervous system whisperers! Yoga and Tai Chi integrate breath, movement, and mindfulness, fostering a mind-body connection that calms the nervous system and improves flexibility, both physically and mentally. Think of these activities as an all-in-one!
ALSO SEE: Why yoga and low-intensity exercises are your next superpowers
Stop to smell the roses
Aromatherapy isn’t just about pleasant fragrances. Certain scents, like lavender or chamomile, can have calming effects on the nervous system. Inhaling these aromas can reduce stress and promote relaxation, making it a sensory treat for your nerves.
If you’re looking for a great way to incorporate aromatherapy into your routine, get yourself a sonic diffuser and start a collection of essential oils to use with your diffuser. Not only does this boast aromatherapy benefits, but it also leaves your space smelling lovely!
Put your body through its paces
Put your body through its paces with exercise – it’s a boon for your nervous system! Moderate aerobic activities stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters. Regular workouts not only boost your mood but also improve nervous system function. Ever noticed how great you feel after a workout? That’s when you know it’s working!
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