8 Simple Habits for Calming an Overactive Nervous System
Ease your mind and body with these easy practices that help soothe your nerves.
1. Breathe Deeply
When you feel like the walls are closing in, take a second to breathe deeply. Breathe in through your nose, hold it for a bit, then let it out through your mouth. It’s like hitting pause on stress.
2. Move Your Body
Regular exercise isn’t just about getting fit; it’s great for your mind too. Whether you’re into yoga, jogging, or dancing, moving around releases endorphins that naturally ease anxiety.
3. Meditate Daily
Spend a few minutes each day meditating—it can really help calm the storm in your head. Even five minutes of focusing on your breath can center your thoughts and lower stress levels.
4. Get Plenty of Sleep
Not getting enough sleep can amp up your anxiety, so aim for 7-9 hours per night to recharge your batteries. A calming bedtime routine can do wonders too.
5. Connect with Nature
Heading outside into nature is like a reset button for the soul. Whether it’s walking through the woods or sitting by a lake, being out in nature has a way of soothing even frailest nerves.
6. Practice Gratitude
Focusing on what you’re thankful for shifts your mood from worry to appreciation. Try keeping a gratitude journal and jot down three things each day that make you feel positive.
7. Limit Stimulants
Cutting back on caffeine, nicotine, and other stimulants can help reduce jitteriness and promote relaxation. Instead of coffee or soda, go for herbal teas or water when you need an energy boost.
8. Connect with Others
Having a strong social network is key for mental health. Reaching out to friends or family regularly for support and conversation provides emotional comfort and stability.
Consider exploring books on mindfulness practices to enhance your daily routines.
- Burnout — Emily and Amelia Nagoski · completing the stress cycle instead of just managing the stressor.
- Why We Sleep — Matthew Walker · the case for sleep as the foundation everything else rests on.
- The Body Keeps the Score — Bessel van der Kolk · how stress and trauma live in the body — and what helps.
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