Ever heard the saying ‘life doesn’t stop for anybody’? It’s true. It’s fickle, ever-changing and harsh. If we don’t have a well-adjusted, regulated, functional nervous system able to appropriately respond to the stressors of daily living, it can cause the body to be in a constant state of fight, flight, or freeze. Issues such as extreme stress, trauma, adverse childhood experiences, poor lifestyle and genetic factors cause our nervous systems to be dysregulated, and it can wreak havoc on our bodies and mental health.
Signs of dysregulation:
- Feeling constantly anxious
- Struggling to ‘switch off’
- Feeling numb, disconnected or emotionally flat
- Emotional outbursts
- Racing thoughts
- Forgetfulness/brain fog
- Trouble sleeping
- Headaches, tight chest
- Tension in your jaw, stomach or shoulders
- Digestive issues
The good news
Having a dysregulated system can make you feel as if you’re not in your body, and the sweet things of life can pass you by. So the goal is to try and bring you back to yourself, to reclaim the truest parts of you. The first step is deciding to take control of your mind and body. It’s not an overnight process, but it can form part of a wellness journey that’s fulfilling and healing.
Proven ways to regulate your system:
- Breathe: Take a deep inhale, followed by a short second inhalation, then an extended exhalation. Known as the physiological sigh, it’s a great in-the-moment technique to lower stress
- Move: You don’t have to gym hard. Yoga, a casual stroll in nature, or even dancing, will work wonders
- Mindfulness: Bring your attention back to everyday tasks like making tea, doing chores or answering emails. Slow down and be fully where you are
- Cold splashes: The shock will jolt your nervous system
- Connect with others: We’re wired for social connection – meet up with friends and loved ones
The takeaway
Stress is a part of life, so you want a nervous system that can effectively deal with all types of stress. (If it feels beyond your control, please consider medical or psychological resources.) However, small lifestyle changes can lead to a balanced body and mind, and ultimately a life lived well.
Also see: Unusual ways to quickly reduce stress
