In a recent episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Carrie Jones and Dr. Cathleen King discussed the importance of nervous system health in managing stress and enhancing overall well-being. Dr. King, a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Neuroplasticity Educator, shared insights on how trauma and stress can lead to chronic symptoms and how we can support our nervous system for better health.
Key Takeaways
- Understanding the nervous system is crucial for managing stress and health.
- Trauma and stress can significantly impact physical health.
- Techniques like breath work can help regulate the nervous system.
- A sequential approach to nervous system healing is essential.
The Role Of The Nervous System
The nervous system is like the body's command center. It monitors how all organs are functioning and decides whether we are in a state of safety or threat. When we are stressed, our nervous system diverts energy to manage that stress, which can compromise our ability to digest food, detoxify, and heal. This is why understanding how our nervous system operates is so important.
Stress: A Broad Umbrella
Stress is often misunderstood. It’s not just about feeling overwhelmed; it’s about how we react to life’s challenges. Stress can be our resistance to situations, emotions, or energy. It’s essential to recognize that stress is a part of life, but how we process it can make all the difference.
Trauma's Impact on Health
Trauma can create a software program in our bodies that dictates how we respond to experiences. This can lead to chronic stress responses, which may manifest as physical symptoms. Many people may focus solely on their physical ailments, like Lyme disease or food sensitivities, without realizing that their nervous system's response plays a significant role in their symptoms.
Steps to Support Your Nervous System
- Understand the Science: Familiarize yourself with concepts like the cell danger response and polyvagal theory. This knowledge can shift your perspective on your health.
- Start with Breath Work: Techniques like box breathing or heart coherence breathing can help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation.
- Take Inventory: Reflect on how you react to stressors in your life. Learning to pause and assess your responses can be empowering.
- Sequential Learning: Don’t overwhelm yourself with too many techniques at once. Start small and gradually build your toolkit for nervous system regulation.
The Vagus Nerve: A Key Player
The vagus nerve is crucial for regulating the body’s response to stress. It connects the brain to various organs and helps manage the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. By focusing on the vagus nerve, you can influence your body’s overall functioning and promote healing.
Breath Work Techniques
- Box Breathing: Inhale for four counts, hold for four, exhale for four, and hold again for four. Repeat several times.
- Heart Coherence Breathing: Focus on your heart and breathe deeply, aiming for a calm and balanced state.
- 4-7-8 Breathing: Inhale for four counts, hold for seven, and exhale for eight. This technique can help calm the nervous system.
The Importance of Patience
Healing the nervous system is not an overnight process. It can take several months to see significant changes. Consistency is key. Engage in daily practices that promote relaxation and awareness, and be patient with yourself as you navigate this journey.
Conclusion
Dr. Cathleen King emphasizes that we have more control over our health than we often realize. By understanding our nervous system and implementing simple practices, we can begin to reclaim our well-being. Remember, it’s about stringing together small moments of self-care and awareness to foster a healthier, more resilient you.
