List #66 - 5 ways I support my nervous system without overthinking it
Before I started thinking about this post, I realized I didn’t exactly know what the nervous system actually is. In theory, I knew, but I want to give a scientific definition. Your nervous system is your body’s communication network. You might know the two different modes as “fight” or “flight”.
Your nervous system toggles between these two states, and while both are necessary, its probably not great to be in overdrive or underdrive all the time. You want balance. The goal isn’t to eliminate stress, rather, to move fluidly between states without getting stuck.
These are the five things I do regularly that help me feel steadier without tracking, optimizing, or overthinking it.
Take frequent work breaks and de-center myself from work when I feel like its taking over my ego
I have a pretty good work ethic, however, when my ego gets involved I tend to amp myself up and become “reactive” instead of “responsive”. These are the moments when I get stressed and tired more easily. Over time I’ve learned that stepping away, even for just 15 minutes, and de-centering work tends to help me feel calm. Perspective is everything.
Running
I’ve been a runner for a while, despite multiple sprained ankles. There’s something about running that does more for me mentally than any other workout.
Taking a boiling hot bath
I find baths and heat to be extremely comforting and calming. As you can probably tell, my nervous system tends to easily transition into overdrive, and so soothing mechanisms like baths and exercise are necessary strategies for achieving that balance. And not driving my husband and family insane.
Reading for 10 minutes
Yeah, yeah we all need to stop being on our phones and read more. But, I swear people, it works. Get out of your “phone head” and into your “book head” and you will feel better after just ten minutes. I recommend something relatable and funny, not super serious unless you need it. Especially if you’re in “fight” state.
In extreme circumstances, all of the above, plus writing it down
I am ashamed to admit I am an unreliable journal-er. I do, however, write it out when I really need to release some frustration and I’ve already done all of the above. This (thankfully!) doesn’t happen often anymore, excusing my luteal phase obviously, but when its that bad I find writing to be the final piece of the curative puzzle.
