How to recognise if you have a dysregulated nervous system

“I just don’t feel quite like me. I feel on edge all of the time and somehow out of balance”

Does this sound familiar? It is something I hear a lot from my clients. They know things with them are not quite right but often struggle to put their finger on exactly what it is or what to do about it. For me, it is a red flag that they have a dysregulated nervous system. 

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it can be easy to overlook, or mis-understand, the signals our bodies send us, especially when it comes to the intricate dance of our nervous system. A dysregulated nervous system can manifest in various ways, impacting our mental and physical wellbeing. In this blog post, we'll explore the signs that your nervous system might be out of balance and delve into holistic remedies, including mindfulness, reiki, and other tips to restore harmony.

Signs of a Dysregulated Nervous System:

1. Chronic Stress and Anxiety:

If you find yourself constantly on edge, experiencing heightened stress levels, or feeling anxious for extended periods, it could be a sign of nervous system dysregulation. The sympathetic nervous system, responsible for the body's fight-or-flight response, may be working in overdrive.

2. Sleep Disturbances:

Disrupted sleep patterns, frequent nightmares, or difficulty falling asleep can indicate an imbalance in the autonomic nervous system. The delicate equilibrium between the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches may be disturbed.

3. Digestive Issues:

Your gut health is closely linked to the nervous system. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), indigestion, or other digestive problems might signal nervous system dysregulation.

4. Sensitivity to Stimuli:

Heightened sensitivity to light, sound, or other environmental stimuli can be a sign that your nervous system is struggling to process and respond appropriately. 

Holistic Remedies for Nervous System Regulation:

1. Mindfulness and Meditation:

Cultivating mindfulness through practices like meditation can help regulate the nervous system. Mindfulness encourages awareness of the present moment, activating the parasympathetic nervous system and promoting relaxation. Over time, a short daily mindfulness practice creates new neural pathways in your brain which mean you are more likely to remain calm in stressful situations and soothe your agitated nervous system.

Try my 30-day Mindfulness Challenge to get started with a daily mindfulness practice. 

Or, come along to the next Online Mindfulness Club.

2. Breathing Exercises:

Deep, intentional breathing exercises activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a sense of calm. Practices like belly breathing or alternate nostril breathing can be effective tools.

You’ll find some simple breathing exercises as part of the 30-day Mindfulness Challenge

Or, simply try taking deep, mindful breaths for 30 seconds each time you do a regular daily task such as washing your hands or making a cup of tea and see how you feel.

3. Reiki Relaxation:

Reiki, an ancient Japanese energy healing technique, focuses on balancing the body's energy. As a  reiki practitioner I help channel healing energy to areas where it's needed most in your body , promoting overall well-being. Think of reiki as a CONTROL-ALT-DELETE reset for your nervous system leaving you feeling deeply relaxed and at peace in just one hour. It is the most deeply relaxing experience I’ve ever found and can really help with improving sleep and helping you to feel more in control again.

Find out more about reiki here

4. Yoga and Movement:

Gentle yoga and mindful movement practices, such as tai chi, can help release tension in the body and regulate the nervous system. These activities combine physical movement with breath, promoting a holistic approach to well-being. You’ll find local classes advertised in your area in parish newsletters or on local Facebook groups.

5. Limiting Stimulants:

Reduce the intake of stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine, as they can contribute to nervous system dysregulation. As always, a well-balanced and nutritious diet will also help your body and brain to function better and that’s no different with the nervous system.

For gut health and nutrition support I highly recommend the lovely Emma Skilton at She’s Got Guts

A Balanced Life

Recognising the signs of a dysregulated nervous system is the first step towards restoring balance in your life. Incorporating mindfulness practices, exploring energy healing like reiki, and adopting a holistic approach to well-being can go a long way in promoting a harmonious relationship between mind and body and give you back more calm, more peace and more balance.