Caring for Your Nervous System: Everyday Tools for Stress Relief
Recently I have been working on my own personal health journey with stress and migraines. I have been learning just how much the nervous system shapes our overall wellbeing. Stress shows up in so many ways such as poor sleep, tension, headaches, and digestive upset. When we are stuck in “fight or flight”, the body never gets the signal that it’s safe to rest and heal.
The good news? There are simple ways to invite the body back into balance.
4 Simple Ways to Balance the Body
Breathe: Try inhaling for 4 counts and exhaling for 8.
Grounding: Step outside barefoot, notice what you see and hear.
Move gently: Walking, stretching or yoga can melt away built up tension.
Connect: A hug, a chat, or time with a pet reminds the body it’s not alone.
Sometimes stress runs deeper than daily overwhelm. Past experiences or old trauma can quietly live in the body, keeping the nervous system on guard. One therapy that can help is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). EMDR supports the brain in reprocessing those “stuck” stress patterns so the body can finally let go and find a greater sense of calm. If you’re curious about it, a great first step is to ask around, talk with your primary care provider or reach out to a local therapist who is trained in EMDR.
Nervous system health isn’t about eliminating stress altogether, but about building resilience and reminding the body it’s safe. Small daily practices can make a powerful difference over time and help us find more balance and ease.
Sylvia Moore, RN