Let's regulate
Nervous system regulation. Seems like a big task and it is! And it's also not, if you know and implement the science.
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The Science
The limbic system is the part of the brain involved in our behavioral and emotional responses. The main parts are the amygdala, the hippocampus, and the hypothalamus. None of these parts are 'thinking' so we must work with the cortex (thinking part of the brain) to induce induce a sympathetic nervous system response and teach it to be utilized for focus and intention. In essence, creating new neural pathways.
Do You Experience?
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Anxiety, emotional overwhelm or have difficulty switching off?
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Depression, feel flat or emotionally numb?
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Chronic pain or migraine?
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Frequent Insomnia?
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Chronic fatigue?
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Chronic inflammation or autoimmune issues?
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A desire to perform at your peak at work?
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A desire for balanced, healthy relationships?
The usual approach
Past and painful memories. That's what our hypothalamus uses to create survival responses. To keep us alive. These are often called fight, flight (adaptive responses) and freeze, fawn (mitigating responses). Oftentimes, the autonomic responses will make it difficult or prevent us from completing even everyday tasks. This can lead to anxiety, depression, anger, withdrawal, procrastination, defensiveness, loss of control, inability to communicate, reactiveness, numbness, impulsivity, and more. Typically, we focus on the issues or problems. We talk through them, medicate them, and try to get rid of them.
My approach
The autonomic responses above are tools the body is using to regain balance and stability from the 'unthinking' part of the brain controlling it. Balance and stability are achieved by the proportioned tension between our sympathetic nervous system (SNS, arousing) and parasympathetic nervous system (PSNS, calming) through self-care (needs) and self-regulation (peace). Using our breath and body awareness as guides, we will build bespoke tools to use the sympathetic nervous system for focus and productivity and tools to use the parasympathetic nervous system for rest and recovery.
What you can expect
A no-judgement approach to struggles or strengths as neither have any intrinsic moral values. We will use breath, body, and emotion integration exercises to increase awareness and teach the middle brain to ride the wave of engagement and recovery daily. To get you out of the cycle of nervous system arousal and no way off the mountain but to jump.
Stress + Resilience
What You'll Learn
Autonomic Awareness
Otherwise known as: what's going on with your body and becoming aware of it. Explore the profound influence of a well-regulated nervous system on your overall health. Learn about the connections between emotions, sensations, thoughts, and behaviors using helpful models. By focusing on specific techniques, you can strengthen resilience and promote balance during challenging times.
My aim is to support you in building a balanced relationship with your body, fostering better self-awareness and encouraging positive changes in your body's adaptability.
Proprioception
Uncover the innate intelligence within your body that recognizes and addresses past challenges and traumatic experiences. Explore the profound impact of proprioception—the body's awareness of its position and movement—alongside posture, fascia, and movement in regulating your nervous system's function.
Restore equilibrium to your nervous system by releasing stored stress energy and hormones accumulated over time. Although certain routines might offer momentary comfort, true healing and stability in long-term well-being come from completing cycles of stress activation associated with past events. This completion paves the way for genuine recovery and ongoing regulation.
Interoception
Frequently referred to as the "eighth sense," interoception involves perceiving sensations within the body. Developing this skill of attuning to internal feelings and sensations, rather than resorting to suppression or dissociation through various coping methods, is fundamental for optimal nervous system health. Interoception, primarily facilitated by the vagus nerve, shapes our internal emotional landscape, influences organ health, and profoundly impacts our self-perception and sense of control.
Heart-Brain Axis
Learn about the heart-brain axis and the crucial role of a robust "vagal brake" in fostering a flexible, adaptable, and resilient nervous system. Explore how breathwork techniques contribute to enhancing vagal tone and overall nervous system health.
Delve deeper into scientifically validated breathwork methods that contribute to enhancing vagal efficiency within the cardiovascular system. Additionally, gain insights into the pivotal roles of posture, positioning, blood pressure, and intentional breath practices in optimizing nervous system function.
Life Integration
Discover how to structure your weekly routine and effectively utilize diverse resources during difficult situations. Acquire a comprehensive toolbox of resources that empower you with the independence and control needed to navigate life's obstacles confidently.