Fears and anxiety are signs of a dysregulated nervous system

As humans we can go through ups and downs in our emotions dependent on the day and circumstances. This is natural and healthy. The body is designed to be flexible.

The problem is when the nervous system is “stuck” in a pattern of sympathetic (fight/flight) or parasympathetic (dorsal/shutdown).

The constant experiencing of fear and anxieties in circumstances that don’t warrant these reactions is one example of a nervous system that is lacking flexibility to deal with the natural challenges of life.

Being “stuck” in one type of autonomic response doesn’t give the body enough time spent, if any, in homeostasis.

Homeostasis is the state where the body experience safety, ease and good social engagement. It’s the state where the body can healthily regulate breathing, heartbeat, digestion, sleep etc…

If your main “setting” is sympathetic (the most common setting for anxiety) it can be causing havoc to your physical, emotional and mental health.

That’s why nervous system regulation through somatic work is extremely important. Safety is priority. Your brain is designed to keep you safe. So when the body doesn’t feel safe your nervous system is spending most of its energy in hyper vigilance. Giving minimal attention to the basic physiological functions to maintain good health.

Do this for a few years or decades and the body will eventually start to show signs of ill health. In my case it was autoimmune and chronic illness showing up in my early 30s.

Hyper vigilance simply means that your body is constantly running on fumes.

Is anxiety and irrational fears something you experience often? Is fight/flight your home away from home? Please share in the comments if you feel called to.

If you feel ready to do this type of work feel free to check my website for more info of how we can work together.