I’m convinced that a healthy nervous system is the foundation for vibrant, thriving health. This isn’t just theory—it’s rooted in science and deeply resonant with personal experience.

When we’re stressed or don’t feel safe, our body shifts into its sympathetic nervous system, triggering the familiar “fight or flight” response. This state is incredibly useful in short bursts—it’s what keeps us alert in danger. But living here for too long? It wreaks havoc on our health.

On the flip side, when our parasympathetic nervous system is activated, our body enters the “rest and digest” mode. This is where the magic happens: heart rate and breathing slow, blood pressure lowers, digestion improves, and the body’s natural healing mechanisms kick in. This is the state of safety, restoration, and resilience.

Here’s the catch: if we’re constantly under stress, or if we live in environments where we don’t feel safe, we stay stuck in “fight or flight.” This chronic state of activation lies at the root of many modern health issues, from burnout and digestive troubles to autoimmune conditions and more.

But there’s hope. The nervous system is incredibly adaptable. When we regularly allow it to rest and reset, we create space for healing and vitality. And the best part? There are simple, powerful practices we can use to nurture our parasympathetic nervous system and reclaim balance.

Practices to Activate the Parasympathetic Nervous System

1. Breathe Deeply
   Deep breathing is like a love note to your brain, reminding it that you’re safe. It’s free, immediate, and profoundly effective.
2. Release with a Deep Sigh
   Ever notice how good it feels to sigh? That’s because a deep sigh is your body’s natural way of releasing tension and resetting your nervous system. Let it out—your body knows what it’s doing.
3. The Power of Touch
   Safe, nurturing touch has a profound impact on the nervous system. Consider getting a therapeutic massage, practicing self-holding exercises, or gently stroking your lips. (Yes, your lips!) Parasympathetic fibers are densely spread throughout the lips, and even a light touch here can activate the system of rest and repair.
4. Hand on Heart Connection
   Place your hand on your heart, close your eyes, and remember a moment when you felt deeply safe and loved. Hold that memory in your mind and let the emotion wash over you for about 30 seconds. This simple practice can soothe your nervous system and affirm your innate safety and worth. Want to amplify the effect? Add a drop of your favorite essential oil to your heart space.
5. Gentle Movement
   Movement is medicine. Whether it’s yoga, tai chi, or a slow walk in nature, gentle exercise helps discharge stress and reset the nervous system. Specific somatic exercises are particularly effective for releasing trauma stored at a cellular level.

Your body wants to heal. When we create the conditions for safety and rest, healing becomes not just possible—it becomes inevitable. Let’s take time to befriend our nervous systems and step into a life of vibrant health.