Our Nervous System

Sitting deep within the nervous system is the autonomic nervous system, this system supplies the functioning of the internal organs, it is a control system that acts largely unconsciously and regulates bodily functions, such as heart rate, digestion, respiratory rate, urination, coughing and breathing rate to name just a few.

The autonomic nervous system is further broken into sections, two of which are the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.  The former relates to the fight or flight system and the latter is linked to the rest and digest system. Both are equally important and necessary for our survival. 

These two key systems do not switch on at the same time, when one is fired up the other is dormant and due to our busy lives, lack of time for ourselves, stresses and demands, we are predominantly switched on and over subscribing to our sympathetic, and not drawing on our parasympathetic system enough to bring harmony and balance. 

Over time extensive stress responses creates a strain on key systems in the body and the body is forced to over produce adrenaline and cortisol.  Prolonged stress has been shown to contribute to a lengthy list of very serious health issues from chronic inflammation, accelerating diabetes and the onset of heart or kidney disease and dementia. 

Our younger selves have more reserves of resilience to bounce back from excessive stress, as move into peri-to-post menopause the need to manage our stress levels, regulate our responses and heal imbalances become extremely important. 

We need to fine tune our nervous system support by managing our stress levels

Start with scheduling regular down time

and joy time

ensuring we rest well

gently exercising regularly 

integrating breathing techniques

increase our intake of dark leafy greens 

and considering adding a daily magnesium supplement to our diets.

MENOPAUSE MATTERS⁣
CYCLICAL LIVING ⁣