Rebuilding Calm: My Path to Nervous System Balance
You may have noticed I skipped last week’s blog. I was traveling to California to care for a family member—my first time on a plane in years.
Traveling and flying used to leave me completely frazzled. I’d feel edgy, out of control, and overwhelmed—especially with turbulence and crowded spaces.
But on my recent trip, something was different. There was turbulence, and I didn’t panic. The flight felt quick, and I stayed calm—even when things didn’t go perfectly.
At first, I was surprised, but then I realized: this calm wasn’t random. It was the result of consistent, intentional work to heal my nervous system.
What Helped Me Find Calm
Here’s what made the difference:
Quitting Alcohol
While it feels like a way to unwind, alcohol disrupts sleep and increases anxiety the next day.
Removing it 3 years ago gave my body space to heal and relieved a tremendous amount of physical and emotional anxiety.
Addressing Nutrient Deficiencies
There are often physiological causes behind stress and anxiety. For me, low B12, ferritin, and vitamin D were key contributors.
Once I identified these imbalances, targeted supplementation and nutrition made a noticeable difference.
Rest Without Guilt
Learning to rest was a process. I used to see needing rest as a weakness, but honoring my body’s need to slow down—through naps or simply pausing—became essential.
The more I rested, the more my nervous system responded, and I still make it a priority today.
Protecting My Peace
I carry noise-reducing earplugs for loud spaces like movies or events, and I give myself permission to step away or take a quiet moment when I feel overstimulated.
I used to worry this might seem rude, but now I see it as a simple way to protect my peace.
Nutrition & Hydration
Prioritizing protein—especially in the morning—has been essential for stabilizing my mood and managing stress.
Hydration has been just as important. I use these flavored electrolytes to make water more enjoyable, and they’re packed with potassium, which supports stress-regulating hormones.
This process wasn’t linear, but it was intentional. The steps I’ve shared aren’t exhaustive, but they’ve been key in regulating my nervous system.
It took about 18 months before I noticed a significant shift, and now, 3 years later, I can soothe my nervous system and move through stress without feeling stuck.
It’s still a work in progress, and I know this is something I’ll continue to nurture, but the changes I’ve seen remind me it’s worth the effort.
What This Means for You
If you’ve been struggling with stress or anxiety, there’s hope.
Often, these feelings have a physiological component—like nutrient deficiencies, thyroid imbalances, or hormonal shifts—that need to be addressed.
Here’s where to start now:
Rest Without Guilt: Your body and brain need time to reset. Slowing down isn’t lazy—it’s a vital part of healing.
Support Your Body: Consider using a high-quality multivitamin (this is my current favorite) and pursue testing for potential nutrient deficiencies or other root causes. If you’re curious about where to start, I’d be happy to guide you.
Healing your nervous system isn’t about perfection or quick fixes. It’s about creating a lifestyle that supports your body and mind in the long term.
Wishing you balance and calm.