A very important topic on the healing journey is our nervous system. If I had known earlier how immensely it impacts the body, I would have taken better care of it much sooner.
Our nervous system is one of the most complex and important systems of the human body. It controls nearly all the functions we perform – from simple movements to the deepest emotional reactions.
But like any system, the nervous system can become imbalanced. Stress, too much work, chronic illnesses, or emotional strain can cause our bodies to show various symptoms, and we may feel completely out of balance.
What is the Nervous System?
The nervous system is a network of nerves and nerve cells (neurons) that controls the body and connects it to the brain and spinal cord. It consists of two main parts:
- Central Nervous System (CNS): This includes the brain and spinal cord. The CNS is the control center of the body and processes information it receives from the sensory organs.
- Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): This consists of the nerves located outside of the brain and spinal cord, and it connects the CNS with various organs and tissues. The PNS is further divided into two main areas:
- Somatic Nervous System: Responsible for voluntary movements and sending information from the sensory organs.
- Autonomic Nervous System (ANS): It controls unconscious functions like breathing, heart rate, and digestion.
The autonomic nervous system is further divided into two parts:
- Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS): Responsible for the “fight or flight” response. In stressful situations, it prepares the body for action by putting it on high alert.
- Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS): It promotes rest and recovery by relaxing the body after stress.
What Happens When the Nervous System Gets Out of Balance?
An imbalance in the nervous system can occur when the sympathetic nervous system is too active and the parasympathetic nervous system is not sufficiently counteracting it. This can lead to a constant “fight or flight” response, overwhelming both the body and mind. Symptoms of an imbalanced nervous system can include:
- Chronic stress and anxiety
- Sleep problems
- Digestive issues
- Concentration difficulties
- Headaches and migraines
- Muscle tension
- Sweating
It’s important to know that our nervous system is in a constant state of adjustment, but sometimes it needs support to regain balance.
How Can You Bring the Nervous System Back into Balance?
There are several methods to calm the nervous system and bring the body back into a state of rest and recovery. Here are some approaches:
Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness helps to calm the mind and relax the nervous system. Meditation is a great way to reduce the activity of the sympathetic nervous system and activate the parasympathetic nervous system.
Breathing Techniques: Deep, slow breathing exercises can calm the nervous system as they stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system. A simple technique is the 4-7-8 method: inhale for 4 seconds, hold the breath for 7 seconds, and exhale for 8 seconds.
Exercise and Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps to release excess energy and stabilize the nervous system. Activities like yoga or Tai Chi are especially calming as they gently stretch the body while calming the mind.
Nutrition: A balanced diet can have a direct impact on the nervous system. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., flaxseeds, walnuts), magnesium (e.g., leafy greens, bananas), and B vitamins (e.g., whole grains, legumes) can help strengthen the nervous system.
Sleep: Adequate and restful sleep is crucial for the regeneration of the nervous system. Make sure to get enough sleep and maintain a regular sleep routine.
Nature and Rest Periods: Spending time in nature and taking regular rest periods help the nervous system recover and restore its internal balance.
Massage and Relaxation Techniques: Massages and other relaxation methods like acupressure or aromatherapy can help release tension in the body and calm the nervous system.
The nervous system plays a significant role in how we feel physically and emotionally on a daily basis, so we should give it the attention it deserves. For me, it has been a major “lever” in making it through the da