THE BODY'S NATURAL CHILL PILL

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Self-coping skills are important when navigating life. Having the ability to access certain functions of the body intentionally can have a big impact on how we experience life. From stressful situations, to over–excitement about a good thing, being able to reel yourself in can prevent you from reacting irrationally and making an emotionally driven mistake.  

IMPORTANCE OF THE PARASYMPATHETIC NERVOUS (PSNS)

The parasympathetic nervous system plays a key role in relaxing the body. The PSNS works via the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is one of the most important nerves in the human body.  The vagus nerve is one of the longest cranial nerves in the human body, running from the brainstem down to the navel. It plays a crucial role in regulating vital functions, working closely with the functions that involve the parasympathetic nervous system. The PSNS controls, rest, relaxation, and recovery, along with other beneficial aspects and functions. 

THE PARASYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM’S ROLE IN RELAXATION  

  • REDUCING HEART RATE  
  • LOWERING BLOOD PRESSURE 
  • STIMULATING DIGESTIVE PROCESSES 
  • PROMOTING RELAXATION OF MUSCLES 
  • ENHANCING IMMUNE FUNCTION 
  • ENERGY CONSERVATION 

PRICELESS CALM

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Remaining calm is a valuable ability to have while here on planet earth. Remaining calm allows you to think clearly and function better than you would while stressed and tight. Often times we get used to functioning while stressed. Taking a couple of seconds to disengage and apply breathing techniques that activate your parasympathetic nervous system can bring on a release of stress and tension almost instantly. 

WAYS TO ACTIVATE THE PARASYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM

  • Deep breathing practices: Practices like belly breathing can activate the PSNS. To belly breathe, inhale through your nose, letting your stomach expand at the same time. Then exhale through your mouth slowly, as if you’re whistling but without making sound, contracting the stomach in as far as comfortably possible. Don’t force it, or strain. Repeat until the feeling of calmness comes over you. It is important to consciously relax your body as much as possible to assist in activating the PSNS. 

 

  • Counting down: Counting down while breathing is another way to calm the body and activate the PSNS. Start from 50, 25, or 10 and countdown to 1 while breathing in through the nose and out through the mouth. Keep relaxing the body, especially the stomach, as you count down one number per complete exhale. 

 

  • Meditation and Mindfulness: Meditation is a great way to calm and recenter yourself. Turning your attention inward while taking focus off of external distractions is a good practice to incorporate into your daily life. This will give you the ability to evaluate your body’s muscle tension and breathing pattern. With relaxed muscle tension and proper breathing, you have the perfect recipe for PSNS activation. 

 

  • Physical Activities: Activities that bring about and encourage relaxation during or afterward are good for supporting and maintaining PSNS activation. Things like yoga, tai chi, or even your own personal activity can bring you to a relaxed state. 

 

  • Aromatherapy: The PSNS can be activated through the sense of smell. Oils like lavender, chamomile, and bergamot are known to have a calming effect that activate the PSNS. 

POSITIVE EFFECTS ON THE BODY THAT ACCRUE AFTER PSNS ACTIVATION

  • Reduced Stress and Anxiety: PSNS activation has the ability to lower the stress hormones in the body. High levels of cortisol and adrenaline can leave one stressed and tired. 
  • Better Digestion: The calm state brought on by PSNS activation encourages better digestion leading to better nutrient absorption. 
  • Lower Blood Pressure and Heart Rate: The parasympathetic nervous system, when activated, counteracts the sympathetic nervous system. This results in lower blood pressure and heart rate, lessening the chance of cardiovascular disease. 
  • Enhanced Immune Function: Ongoing stress and tension can lead to a weakened immune system. PSNS activation lowers stress, which increases the body’s ability to fight off illnesses. 
  • Increased Emotional Wellbeing: The stress relief brought on by PSNS activation can reduce depression, and bring about a greater sense of well-being. 
  • Better Sleep and Recovery: PSNS activation calms the body and slows the mind, allowing for an easier, more consistent transition to sleep.  

CHILL OUT

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In a world full of unnatural alternatives, it’s always best to try to handle personal health with a natural approach if possible. Of course, not all problems can be overcome without the help or guidance of a medical professional, but, often times, the best cure is prevention. Stress can lead to physical illness that can alter one’s life in negative ways. Activating the PSNS through daily lifestyle practices can lead to a life of longevity and health. So, it is important to be mindful of the body and mind. Practices like meditation, deep breathing, physical activity, and relaxation exercises that maintain and give one the opportunity to check in with one’s self are needed daily.  We should assess what we’re feeling and how we’re perceiving our lives. We must remain on top of taking care of ourselves. After all, we’re no good to anyone with a body and mind that are at odds. Calming both mind and body and bringing them into alignment with each other will only ensure your inner peace.

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