When we’re “stressed out,” our nervous system is reacting to a perceived life threat — muscles tense in preparation for action: the fight-or-flight response.
In fight-or-flight mode, the brain has more activity in the areas associated with emotions and less in the areas associated with decision-making. The vagus nerve acts as the “braking system” to fight-or-flight, restoring calm.
Here is ONE tool to calm your nervous system today: reach over the top of your shoulder, squeeze the tissue, and drag your hand over your shoulder down to your collarbone. Alternate sides six to eight times. Pause and notice — your breathing may have slowed, your heart and mind likely stopped racing.
You’re bombarded daily with situations that make your nervous system perceive threat — we all are. That’s why it’s critical to arm yourself with tools to calm it. I teach the skills to balance your nervous system in everyday life — immediately usable and life-changing. Learn how.