Relax Your Nervous System
Join me in adding self soothing techniques to your daily routine in order to calm your nervous system, and de-stress.
Lately I have been feeling like there is a constant undercurrent of stress running in my body. Could it be from my environment? All the many the screens and ads we are bombarded with? The busy schedule of having a young kid? Or maybe just all of the above, and then more. But what I do know is it is time to do something about it! So I wanted to share a few practices that I am prescribing myself in order to feel a little better in my nervous system.
Deep Breathing: Deep, slow breaths can activate the body's relaxation response. Try diaphragmatic breathing, also known as belly breathing, to help calm your nervous system.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation: This technique involves systematically tensing and then relaxing different muscle groups in your body, which can help release physical tension.
Massage: Massage therapy can reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation. Even self-massage techniques can be helpful.
Listening to Music: Listening to calming and soothing music can have a positive impact on your nervous system.
Nature Walks: Spending time in nature and taking leisurely walks in green spaces can reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Grounding: Take off your shoes and feel the earth below your feet. Lay in the grass. Dig in the dirt. Touch the earth.
Limit Screen Time: Reduce exposure to screens, especially before bedtime, to prevent overstimulation. Need I say more?
Social Support: Spend time with friends and loved ones, as social interactions can have a calming effect on your nervous system.
Gratitude Practice: Reflecting on the things you're grateful for can shift your focus away from stress and anxiety.
Join me this month and try to pick at least one of these every day. Lets see if we can feel a little bit more relaxed and in charge of our well beings. Remember that what works best for you may vary, and it's often a combination of techniques that provides the most effective relaxation. Experiment with different approaches to find the ones that work best for you and make them a part of your regular routine.
Anne