By Kaley Burns EBS COLUMNIST
The nervous system is your body’s command center and a vital key to your overall wellness. It governs everything from the heartbeat to digestion, and our thoughts and feelings. This system is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves that connect throughout the body.
There are two main parts of the nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for activating the body’s “fight or flight” response in times of stress or danger, while the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for conserving and replenishing, or “rest and digest.”
Being in a constant state of “fight-or-flight,” can lead to feeling tired but wired, not sleeping through the night, waking between 1 and 4 a.m., digestive issues such as bloating, premature gray hair, higher blood pressure, elevated blood sugar levels, weight gain especially around the midsection, and the sensation of not being able to calm down or slow down mentally or physically.
How can we support the nervous system for improved all-around health?
Deep breathing exercises can make a difference. Sometimes the breath has a bigger influence over our health than our thoughts. Breathing can influence the parasympathetic system, helping you to feel calm and relaxed.
We can focus on somatic movement. The mind and body are intricately connected. Therefore, incorporating movement into your self-care routine is essential for regulating the nervous system. Yoga, dance or any form of gentle exercise such as walking can help release tension and bring more calm into your world.
Getting enough rest is vital for the nervous system to repair and regenerate. Make sure to prioritize quality sleep and take breaks when needed throughout the day.
Acupuncture has been used for centuries to help regulate the nervous system and is used in the treatment of many nervous system disorders. There are specific points acupuncturists use to address the nervous system, which encourage a parasympathetic response throughout the body. This turns on your body’s natural healing abilities. Acupuncture works best when you receive treatment on a routine basis.
Even cold showers can help. Cold water stimulates our immune system and activates our vagus nerve, which reduces our stress response. This is a nerve that connects the brain and digestive tract. If our vagus nerve is not working optimally, it can lead to slowed motility in our gut, weight gain, anxiety, high-stress, and nutrient deficiencies.
Of course, diet matters. Consuming adequate protein helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system. Egg yolks are rich in lecithin and choline, which support the nervous system, while improving memory and brain activity. Also, Inositol, a B-vitamin found mainly in beans and citrus fruits, also has a balancing effect, enhancing parasympathetic tone by improving the balance of neurotransmitters.
Learning to regulate your nervous system is a process and a practice. Moving into a state of “rest and digest” is pivotal in all healing protocols. Whether you’re looking to promote healthy digestion, detoxification, or cellular regeneration, don’t forget your nervous system.
Dr. Kaley Burns is a licensed Naturopathic Physician providing a wide range of services for her clients, including: Naturopathic Medicine, IV Nutrient Therapy, Regenerative Injections, Rejuvenation Therapies, Vitamin Shots, and Nutrition Counseling. She embraces a natural approach to health and aims to similarly inspire and guide others on their health journey.
