Your Nervous System in Times of Stress
So times are stressful. It may be money, workload, family politics or any other stress inducing activity, but most importantly, is that you are feeling frazzled! Well, do not worry, because help is at hand, and looking after the Nervous System is a simple case of awareness and detail. Here is the low down for you.
What is your Nervous System?
In the most basic terms, it is a postal system between the brain and the body. It allows your body to receive messages from the brain with instructions as to how to act/react. It incorportaes the brain, spinal cord and nerves.
Your Nervous System will work at it’s best and be highly efficient when toned and cared for. And in times of stress, your nervous system will be stretched to its limits. It will receive messages incorrectly, your brain’s perception will be over dramatic and your body will feel fatigued.
You have two Nervous Systems – The Sympathetic & The Parasympathetic
The Sympathetic Nervous System
This system is your Fight or Flight response. This will activate in times of danger and intense stress. The Amygdala in the brain activates the adrenals to give a burst of adrenaline, raising the heart rate & blood pressure, allowing the body to have that quick immediate power to save itself. Great for running away from bears, but not necessarily needed too much in our everyday 21st century lives.
After the initial burst of adrenaline, thebody produces Cortisol, a stress hormone. Regulat Adrenaline & Cortisol in the body will result in headaches, mental fatigue, depression amd Imsomnia.
The Para-Sympathetic Nervous System
This is the system we want to activate when feeling stressed. The Para-sympathetic nervous system will calm you down, lower the heart rate, negate the adrenaline and cortisol and have you feeling all floaty and happy again.
How To Manage The Nervous System in Times of Stress
When you notice your stress levels rising (heart rate, anxiety in belly, muddled thinking) you need to activate the Para-Sympathetic Nervous System. This is done by taking deep slow breaths and breathing out through the mouth.
By Exhaling through the mouth you will stimulate your Vagun Nerve – the nerve that will actvovate your Para-sympathetic nervous system.
Many a time, people have been asked to blow into a brown paper bag, this is because there is a visual reference to breath getting back under control and slowing down. Remember – breath through the mouth.
Other ways to relax your nervous system in times of stress are
- Meditation
- Fresh Air
- Listen to calming music
- Get some alone time
- Excercise
- Self care (bath, shower)
- Massage
- Sex
- Journal
The main thing is to look after yourself. Notice triggers & flash points and put yourself first.
I am an Actress, Kundalini Teacher, Children’s Yoga Teacher and Mama. As the founder of the Train Children in Mindfulness course, I empower parents, teachers and any care giver to share mindfulness with children and teenagers.
My passion is ensuring that you are able to practice your self-care and enjoy your spiritual journey. My You Tube Channel provides masses of guidance and classes.
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