The Art of Slow Living: Regulating the Nervous System ˗ˏˋ ꨄ ´ˎ˗
A life where there’s no need to rush.
A life where you can take the time to notice almost every detail about the clouds in the sky; where you can use your senses to their full capacity. One that you can focus.
A very desirable and achievable life.
Slow living goes hand in hand with regulating the nervous system. A dysregulated nervous system is way more harmful than it sounds. It signifies a state of imbalance between the sympathetic (fight-or-flight) and parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) systems. This can manifest physiologically through fatigue, dizziness, chronic pain, seizures, partial paralysis.
Choosing to slow down in a world that’s constantly rushing is also self care ₊ᰔ ⋮
I read this from somewhere, i think maybe a post on here: everything in the world seems to be sped up, there are sped up songs, sped up videos and people in their twenties complaining about being old.
Sound baths are known for their soothing and healing effects, which can have physical effects such as muscle tension, headaches, and pain. This is my personal experience so it may not be the same for everyone. Here you practice breathing and meditation, even without the sound baths. My favorite channels are: chakra vibrations ⁺₊⋆⁺₊ healing vibrations ⁺₊⋆⁺₊ irene athanasiou ⁺₊ ⋆⁺₊
The healing powers of nature ♡⊹ ࣪ ˖
Some say humans were meant to live in pure nature, and I can’t say I fully disagree, since we thrive in it. The sea, the trees, the grass, the soil, the sand, and the air all contribute to a balanced and healthy nervous system. Nature engages the senses, which can ground the nervous system and improve body awareness. Just being in nature alone can reset your nervous system.
Digital overstimulation is real ♡⊹ ࣪ ˖
Reduce constant screen time and set intentional limits. Replace mindless scrolling with reading, journaling, or simply observing nature. Your feeds often promote the need to rush, whether you’re watching influencers or seemingly motivational quotes online that really just make you question why your life is moving at the pace it is.
The blue light from screens interferes with the body's production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. So try this at least before bed. The constant stream of information from digital devices can keep the nervous system in a state of hyperarousal. A digital detox removes this constant stimulation.
Additionally, constant notifications and fifteen second videos can cause an artificial spike in dopamine. Unplugging allows dopamine levels to return to a more stable baseline, which can help reduce compulsive behaviors. It’s okay to be quiet! You may use your phone to get rid of your thoughts, not even realizing that these constant rush of thoughts are caused by your device. A detox provides silence.
An Anti-Inflammatory & Fibrous Diet ♡⊹ ࣪ ˖
Said a million times but still true; what you eat contributes heavily to your how you react and respond to certain situations. Say you eat nothing but unhealthy, ultra processed foods for the entire week, there’s no way you’ll feel good. You will have an energy crash, you will experience inflammation and digestive issues. If you change your diet, you will notice better skin health, you will have more energy, and you will feel lighter both physically and mentally.
However, consistency is key, as your body needs time to adapt to new eating patterns. Diets that are rich in saturated fats and sugar decrease levels of vital proteins in the brain and lead to poorer neuronal performance. So read the labels, swap unhealthier choices out for healthier ones, meal plan and shop smart. And drink 2-3 liters of water every day.
Fruits - Blueberries, Strawberries, Apples, Oranges, Watermelon
Vegetables - Spinach, Kale, Broccoli, Carrots
Whole Grains - Oats, Quinoa, Brown rice, Barley
Legumes - Lentils, Chickpeas, Black beans
Healthy Fats - Salmon, Walnuts, Chia seeds, Olive oil
Herbs & Spices - Turmeric, Ginger, Garlic, Cinnamon
Beverages - Green tea, Water, Herbal teas
Exercise boosts endorphins (the brain’s natural stress-relieving and pain-killing chemicals) and improves blood flow to the brain, improving brain function & mood; both of which support a well-regulated nervous system. Yoga, walking, cardio, dancing, pilates, tai chi, etc., are all great options to use, while aiming for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to give your body the healing it deserves.
So take your time, take deep breaths, be purposeful, be self-awareness for your own well-being and the planet's, and remember this is not the end; things will change as long as you want them to. Stay tuned for part 2! @urdreamgirlangel
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