As we discussed in the last blog, many of us, even here in picturesque Viridian, get caught up in fight or flight in the hustle and bustle of today’s chaotic world . Our children are not immune from this either, though their symptoms can look different, namely restlessness, trouble sleeping, digestive issues, and immune system problems.
So what are the things that can help the nervous system switch appropriately from a state of stress and overwhelm to being able to rest, digest and heal? In days long past it was much easier - the sun rising and setting told bodies to slow down (without lights or screens to confuse our brains with light signals). The support of communal living and the rituals and traditions helped humans feel a sense of belonging. The constant movement that was required to live and grow or find food fully exhausted their bodies, then requiring deep rest for recovery.
In today’s modern world, we can emulate those aspects of ancient lifestyles. Taking in sunlight (with bare eyes, not through a window) at sunrise and sunset can help reset circadian rhythms. Participating in community and family activities, traditions, and having hobbies with groups of people you enjoy can invoke safety. And getting plenty of exercise, in whatever way you love moving your body, will help!
If those hacks aren’t getting to the root of your sympathetic dominance and you or your child’s body is still feeling both tired and wired, we look to the nervous system. To simplify for today, the part of the nervous system we try to upregulate or switch back on is the parasympathetic nervous system, which lives in the very upper portion of the neck and the nerves that exit just below the skull. That includes both the spinal nerves, as well as a very important cranial nerve called the vagus nerve, aka the wanderer. The vagus nerve sends information to and from the heart, lungs, digestive system, and many other places, either telling the system to ramp up to meet demands, or helping everything calm down. The gentle craniosacral therapy and adjustments we do in the office directly affects these body-balancing nerves, which is why I regularly get texts from happy moms telling me that their baby or toddler is now finally sleeping, pooping, or staying calm! Removing interference in these areas of the spine helps the brain perceive the environment more accurately and turn down its defense mechanisms.
Other MVPs for calming the nervous system and inducing a parasympathetic state: Deep breaths, meditation, gargling, humming, hugs, singing (especially in a group), and receiving bodywork such as massage. Or, read our previous blog to learn about and utilize some extra parts of our sensory touch system (proprioception, interoception, and exteroception) that can help the brain feel safe and create instant calm.
If you’d like a free consult to determine if your stress can be lessened by the services we offer, text (612) 280-6596.
