Nervous System Regulation: Take a Deep Breath of Fresh Air
Nervous system overload! We’re all there. Whether we are in an industry that is thriving and keeping our economy afloat, an industry that is suffering greatly, are unemployed or taking care of a loved one, the stress is on us all right now. The question falls on us: How do we keep some sense of grounding and normalcy to our world that has been turned upside down. In times of stress, our body and mind start to operate differently to compensate for the added stress.
In Chinese medicine, we are constantly looking at the Liver network and how that is functioning. The Liver or Wood element is the General and consequently, it controls the smooth flow of Qi in the body. But, what does that mean? From a western standpoint, our Liver cleans and detoxifies the body and especially the blood. From a Chinese medicine perspective this encompasses so much more. The Liver network is reflected in the eyes, shows itself as anger or frustration, manifests in the ligaments and tendons and loves sour flavors. The energy of the Liver is the General and to lead. We frequently discuss Liver Qi stagnation in Chinese medicine which can be difficult for Americans to understand. You know that frustration you feel when things don’t go the way we would like? That’s Liver Qi stagnation. What’s the first thing we do when stress starts to build? We start taking big deep sighing breaths. This is because the 5 element model, the Lungs and Metal network controls and keeps that Liver in check. The more easily we can “bend like bamboo” and go with the flow, that is what keeps our Liver happy and smooth flowing. The way to keep your Liver happy is through movement because otherwise it gets stuck... and cramped.
We are in a time where so much change, flexibility, courage and patience is being constantly demanded of us all. And it is necessary for us all to remember these qualities in a time of such intensity. We can and we will, but we have to be able to support ourselves through this time of so much fluctuation and change.
An overactive nervous system or sympathetic overdrive is reflected as signs of anxiety, panic attacks, nervousness, insomnia, breathlessness, palpitations, inability to relax, cannot sit still, jumpy or jittery, poor digestion, fear, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Does this sound like you? In acupuncture, we use points that calm the spirit and smooth the Liver Qi to address this problem. As Americans, this can easily characterize the majority of our population. This is our nature. This is also why acupuncture is so effective for so many of us. What else supports calming our nervous system? Good diet, meditation, gentle exercise, yoga, tai chi, book reading, creative arts activities and the easiest is getting outdoors.
Even though Colorado is slowly opening back up, many people are still quite cautious about spending time out. We are so fortunate to have such an amazing backyard of nature here. I know personally, having a 5 year old daughter through such a wild time has been eventful. Children are little balls of Liver energy, and keeping them stimulated and nervous energy exhausted are equally as important. As many parents know, a good walk can make or break the mood of the day. Are we any different?
Yale School of the Environment states in YaleEnvironment360 in a January 29, 2020 article, Ecopsychology: How Emmersion in Nature Benefits Your Health:
“studies have shown that time in nature — as long as people feel safe — is an antidote for stress: It can lower blood pressure and stress hormone levels, reduce nervous system arousal, enhance immune system function, increase self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and improve mood. Attention Deficit Disorder and aggression lessen in natural environments, which also help speed the rate of healing. In a recent study, psychiatric unit researchers found that being in nature reduced feelings of isolation, promoted calm, and lifted mood among patients.”
I encourage all of you to get out there, safely and support yourself, your loved ones and your community. Be happy and healthy. Lets bend like bamboo and not snap like dry branches.