Self Care: Support The Nervous System
I have questions for you.
Are you...
Stressed? Nerves frazzled? Overwhelmed with responsibilities, choices to make, things to do? Are you feeling fatigued and want a restorative break? Does your zeal seem to be taking a hit, like you look in the mirror and think, "Is that MY tired, lacking luster face?" Do you feel like there is never enough time and you can't keep up?
Your nervous system may be trying to tell you something. In summary, if you are experiencing these symptoms regularly, you are likely functioning in a Sympathetic state way too often. If you add insult to injury and include other lifestyle factors such as poor sleep, poor nutrition, poor immunity, and poor brain function, please do yourself a favor, and read on to intervene as soon as possible in your self-care!
Let's briefly break down the 2 parts of the nervous system and what they do:
Parasympathetic: This is our more relaxed state- where we can rest & digest. This is where our bodies can access the resources it needs to heal.
Sympathetic: Fight of flight- our stressed state. This is only to be used for short durations. We are not supposed to "live" in this state for long periods at a time. Think of it as more for emergency purposes. This stage will push out stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. Long-term effects of these hormonal releases can cause everything from weight fluctuation to hair loss (varies from person to person).
What triggers living in the Sympathetic/fight or flight state for too long?
Stress
Poor nutrition
Poor sleep
Poor immunity
Gut imbalance (dysbiosis, leaky gut, gut infections)
Overconsumption of caffeine, sugar, and refined foods
What can you do to shift your nervous system into the Parasymathtic state?
Prayer & meditation. You can do your own thing (i.e. I like to write out my prayers), or you could try an app such as HeadSpace or Calm.
Nature walks and grounding (barefoot walking).
Massage & aromatherapy, an effective combination to help soothe and restore the nervous system.
Counseling and/or talk to a trusted friend. We all need a safe place to land from time to time. Consider being that safe person for another soul in your world.
Increase pure water intake, decrease sugary drinks and caffeine beverages.
Sweating (sounds yucky, but methods such as hot tubs & saunas are beneficial). They aid in the detox process, as well as release muscular tension.
Disconnect! Shut your devices down, walk away, take a break! The world will not fall apart if you take one day to detox your brain from cyber space. Your brain waves will actually thank you for it and you will likely experience a calming from within. Take your usual screen time and go for a walk instead.
Supplement with adaptogens (herbs that help the body deal with stress), such as Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, Reishi, Maca, Siberian Ginseng. I prefer these in herbal tea blends, but I do like this idea: Try an adaptogen coffee blend! Four Sigmatic Ground Adaptogen Coffee with Ashwagandha 12 oz https://bit.ly/3zokBUP
Support the adrenals (two tiny glands that sit atop of our kidneys). They are small but do a lot of work for us in balancing our energy output and hormones. DHEA supplementation can assist in strengthening the adrenals. Our body produces this substance, but as we age, we make less. Try Zhou DHEA 50 mg - 60 Veggie Capsules https://bit.ly/3g5Qn0U Talk to your health care provider before starting any new supplement. Read labels& talk to PCP to know the best dose for you.
Consider Ginkgo Biloba supplement if you feel stress is hindering your brain functions, such as poor memory, foggy thinking, lack of focus. Ginkgo Biloba is an herb that helps deliver oxygen to the brain, encouraging circulation. Nature's Answer Ginkgo 80 mg - 60 Vegetarian Capsules https://bit.ly/3zcXmN7
Use essential oils topically to support the nervous system. I use a blend I create called, Nerve Nourish, which includes Lobelia, Frankincense, Turmeric, Lavender, Basil Marjoram, Ginger, Cumin, Vitamin E + base oil. I will also often place Sage & Cedar essential oils on the feet, solar plexus reflex point) because these oils have a grounding, soothing effect. NOW Foods Essential Oils Atlas Cedar Oil 1 fl oz https://bit.ly/3x60lFp
Featuring Nerve Nourish Therapy: 1 hour of relaxing therapeutic bodywork with specific oils to relax and support the nervous system. Inspired Wellness is a no-judgment zone. In the yurt, I am here to serve you in wellness, offering a time & space for you to seek balance and health.
Nerve Nourish Therapy: This service is a one-hour session/full body, also incorporating foot reflexology. This therapeutic service can be ideal for you if: You are over-tired, over-worked, over-stressed, experience nerve pain/inflammation, adrenal fatigue, and/or anxiety.
Your wellbeing matters.
With Grace,
Cara
Inspired Wellness Hours (By Appointment only):
Thursdays 9am to 5pm
Fridays 9am to 5pm
Saturdays 9am to 1pm