How I navigate anxiety and dysregulation in my life!

In the tumultuous journey through anxiety, my world was shaken by a sudden panic attack, a visceral experience that marked the beginning of my exploration into anxiety and its intricate dance with the nervous system. High levels of anxiety became a constant companion, leading me to seek solace and understanding in the realm of nervous system regulation. Though this was now 4 years ago, I often reflect on how far I've come and how important it is to learn to find ways to regulate our nervous system in times of stress in our lives.

Understanding the Ebb and Flow:

It's crucial to acknowledge that, even on a healing journey, stress can stir the waters of anxiety. The nervous system responds to stress, a natural facet of life. The key lies in knowing how to support oneself during these inevitable ebbs.

My Top 5 Nervous System Regulation Practices:

1. Vigorous Exercise: Regular, high-intensity exercise serves as my anchor during challenging times, helping to dissipate the surge of adrenaline that often accompanies stress. A morning run or a challenging workout not only boosts endorphins but also provides a focused outlet for the nervous system's excess energy.

2. Holistic Well-being: Prioritizing hydration, adequate sleep, and mindful nutrition creates a stable foundation for my physical and mental well-being, offering resilience in the face of stressors. Sipping on herbal tea, ensuring a full night's sleep, and savoring nutrient-rich meals form the cornerstones of this practice.

3. Cold Showers: Embracing the shock of cold water, whether through a brisk shower or a splash on the face, provides an instant reset, jolting the nervous system into a more balanced state. It's a literal and metaphorical way of breaking through the haze of anxiety, inviting clarity and alertness.

4. Grounding Practices: Engaging my senses becomes paramount when overwhelmed. Whether feeling the texture of an object, taking in the scent of nature, or listening to calming sounds, grounding practices bring me back to the present moment. For example, I might keep a small, smooth stone in my pocket to touch during stressful moments, creating a tangible connection to the present.

5. Self-Compassion and Joy: Treating myself with kindness and connecting with my inner child through joyful activities, even in discomfort, has become a cornerstone. Embracing moments of joy is a powerful antidote to stress. This could involve anything from indulging in a guilty pleasure TV show to spending quality time with a beloved pet.

Putting it Into Practice:

For you, vigorous exercise might mean a brisk walk in a nearby park or a dance session in your living room. Holistic well-being could involve sipping on a comforting cup of herbal tea, ensuring a consistent sleep routine, and experimenting with nutritious recipes. Cold showers might be replaced by a refreshing face wash with a gentle cleanser. Grounding practices could be as simple as carrying a small, scented sachet in your bag to engage your sense of smell. Embracing joy may manifest in a small act of kindness to yourself, a moment of laughter, or engaging in a beloved hobby like painting or gardening.

The Nervous System Reset Challenge:

Nervous system regulation has become a cornerstone of my life, inspiring the creation of the 10-Day Nervous System Reset Challenge. This program is designed to help you build strength and support in your own nervous system, empowering you to discover practices that resonate with your unique journey. Explore the challenge here.

Navigating anxiety is an ongoing journey, and understanding how to regulate the nervous system is a powerful tool. Remember, you're not alone in this. Embrace the practices that work best for you, and consider joining the challenge to deepen your exploration. Here's to a life where resilience meets well-being.

Sending love,

Carly