Boost Your Nervous System Health with These Essential Tips

The nervous system controls everything from your movements to your thoughts and emotions. When it functions well, you feel alert, balanced, and energized. When it struggles, you may experience fatigue, stress, or difficulty concentrating. Supporting your nervous system is key to maintaining overall health and well-being.

Last week a saw a client who was struggling with anxiety and we balanced the nervous system and worked on the digestive system - where anxiety often sits and I had an email the following day "Thank you so much for my session yesterday, I found it incredible and have honestly felt such a sense of calm all day today and think that's all thanks to you." Balancing through kinesiology can be so impactful, and allows the anxiety to release from the body. So here are some practical ways to keep your nervous system strong and resilient between treatments.

Detailed view of neural pathways in a brain model

Understanding the Nervous System

The nervous system is a complex network of nerves and cells that transmit signals between different parts of the body. It has two main parts:

• Central Nervous System (CNS): Includes the brain and spinal cord. It processes information and controls most functions.

• Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Connects the CNS to limbs and organs. It carries messages back and forth.

  
  

This system regulates everything from breathing and heartbeat to reflexes and emotions. Because it is so vital, keeping it healthy supports your entire body.

Nutrition That Supports Your Nervous System

Your nervous system depends on nutrients to function properly. Certain vitamins, minerals, and foods help protect nerve cells and improve communication between them.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fatty fish like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds. These fats improve brain function and reduce nerve inflammation.

• Magnesium: Helps regulate nerve signals and muscle function. Found in nuts, seeds, whole grains, and dark chocolate.

• Antioxidants: Vitamins C and E protect nerves from damage caused by free radicals. Citrus fruits, berries, nuts, and green vegetables are rich in antioxidants.

• Avoid excessive caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods, which can stress the nervous system and interfere with nutrient absorption.

Daily Habits to Strengthen Your Nervous System

Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference in how your nervous system performs.

• Regular Exercise: Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain and nerves, promoting growth and repair. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days.

• Quality Sleep: Sleep allows the nervous system to rest and recover. Adults need 7-9 hours per night. Create a calming bedtime routine and keep a consistent schedule.

• Stress Management: Chronic stress overloads the nervous system. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to calm your mind and body.

• Hydration: Nerve cells need water to transmit signals efficiently. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.

  
  

Protecting Your Nervous System from Damage

Certain factors can harm your nervous system over time. Taking steps to avoid these risks helps maintain long-term health.

• Limit Exposure to Toxins: Avoid smoking, excessive alcohol, and environmental pollutants. These substances can damage nerve cells. How can you reduce toxins in the house, cleaning products, beauty products electronics?

• Avoid Excessive Screen Time: Prolonged use of screens can cause eye strain and disrupt sleep patterns, indirectly affecting nervous system health.

Mind-Body Practices to Enhance Nervous System Health

Your nervous system responds to mental and emotional states. Practices that promote calm and focus can improve nervous system balance.

• Meditation: Regular meditation lowers stress hormones and enhances brain connectivity.

• Breathing Exercises: Techniques like diaphragmatic breathing activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation.

• Tai Chi and Qigong: These gentle movement practices improve coordination, balance, and nervous system regulation.

• Mindfulness: Being present in the moment reduces anxiety and improves nervous system resilience.

  
  

Act on stress sooner rather than later

Our body and brain is very good at compensating when things are not working well so we keep functioning - which is great, but if we keep this cycle going it takes us into a deeper and deeper state of poor health, when it becomes hard to reverse. Be aware of the signs of stress, and start to take action as soon as possible.

If you need a treatment - you know where I am.