Let’s be honest, modern life is noisy. Between juggling family, work, hormones, and all the invisible mental tabs open in your brain…it’s no wonder your nervous system is fried. If you’ve been feeling anxious, on edge, wired but tired, or just plain exhausted, you’re not broken. You’re just dysregulated.
The good news? Your body wants to return to a place of balance and calm. It just needs your help. Here are 5 of my favorite ways to naturally regulate your nervous system (that don’t require a week-long retreat or breaking the bank).
1. Breathe Like You Mean It
Most of us are shallow chest breathers without even realizing it, which keeps our nervous system in fight-or-flight mode.
Try this: Box Breathing. Breathe in for 4 seconds. Hold for 4. Breathe out for 4. Hold for 4. Repeat 4 times.
This simple rhythm helps reset your vagus nerve, the part of your nervous system that’s like a calm, grounded friend reminding you it’s safe now.
2. Ground Yourself (Literally)
Take those shoes off and get your feet in the grass. Feel the earth under you. Grounding (or “earthing”) helps bring your energy down, reduce inflammation, and calm the nervous system.
If you’re prairie living like me, bonus points for letting the breeze hit your skin and soaking in a few minutes of sunshine while you’re out there. Your body will thank you.
3. Use Essential Oils with Intention
You know I love my oils, but here’s the deal: the nervous system responds beautifully to smell because it’s directly wired to the limbic brain (your emotional control center).
Try diffusing or applying these oils to the back of your neck, chest, or wrists: –Lavender – the queen of calm. –Frankincense – grounding and supportive. –Cedarwood – great for calming overthinking. –Peace & Calming™ – Young Living blend that does what it says.
Breathe them in slowly, intentionally. Make it a moment of stillness.
4. Slow, Rhythmic Movement
You don’t need a hardcore workout to regulate your nervous system. In fact, that can sometimes stress it more.
Instead, think gentle swaying, rocking, stretching, or walking. Movement that mimics what we instinctively did as babies, rocking, crawling, and rolling, is deeply regulating.
Try a 10-minute walk outside, slow stretching in your bedroom, or rocking gently in a chair while listening to calming music or scripture.
5. Safe, Healing Touch
Your skin is your largest organ and a direct line to your nervous system. Whether it’s a hug, a gentle self-massage, or a craniosacral session (yes, that’s what I offer!), therapeutic touch tells your brain: “You’re safe. You’re seen. You’re loved.”
Can’t get to a session this week? Try placing one hand on your heart and one on your belly while taking slow breaths. Let that touch be a reminder that you’re allowed to slow down and rest.
Friend, your nervous system doesn’t need to stay stuck in survival mode. You were made for more than just “getting through the day.” With some gentle daily practices, you can shift your body from chaos to calm. And the ripple effect? Better sleep, more patience, clearer thinking, balanced hormones… yes please.
Need help knowing where to start? I’ve got your back. Reach out for a craniosacral therapy session, get the free Ultimate Vagus Nerve Guide, or message me about oils. Let’s walk this healing path together.
With love and deep breaths, Kirsten Ash + Bloom Collective
