From Hustle to Harmony: Daily Practices for Nervous System Health

September 11th, 2024

Welcome back to the Peace Grows Here Podcast! I'm your host, Yeliena Theofilatos, an anxiety expert, therapist, and hypnotherapist passionate about nervous system regulation.

In this solo episode, I delve into the critical topic of unwinding societal conditioning around productivity and self-care, especially within the context of capitalism, patriarchy, and white supremacy.

Key Points Discussed:

  1. Understanding Societal Conditioning:

    • How our values and the way we structure our lives can be influenced by societal expectations.

    • The importance of distinguishing between what is authentically ours and what has been imposed by society.

  2. Daily Nervous System Hygiene Routine:

    • The significance of proactive and reactive practices for nervous system regulation.

    • Strategies for incorporating self-care routines into your daily life, such as yoga, meditation, and taking breaks throughout the day.

  3. Proactive vs. Reactive Practices:

    • Proactive tools: Lifestyle routines that improve vagal tone and overall nervous system health, such as quality sleep, regular exercise, and socializing.

    • Reactive tools: In-the-moment exercises to reverse activation or shutdown states, like engaging in sensory practices and using the vagus nerve.

  4. Addressing Different States of Dysregulation:

    • Techniques for managing anxiety and sympathetic activation through movement and breathwork.

    • Approaches for overcoming shutdown states and depression by gently reintroducing mobilizing energy.

  5. Personal Protocols for Regulation:

    • My personal morning practice and how I manage to stay regulated throughout the day.

    • Tips on how to check in with your body and mind, recognize signs of dysregulation, and apply appropriate tools for self-care.

  6. Upcoming Free Resource:

    • Announcement of a new freebie: a video and workbook guide to setting boundaries, managing time, and creating a personalized nervous system regulation routine.

Notable Quotes:

  • "We are not made to grind. We may have hustle energy, but it is ultimately meant to be used in short periods of time."

  • "The difference between proactive and reactive tools is crucial for effective nervous system regulation."

Resources Mentioned:

  • Book: "Healing Through the Vagus Nerve" by Amanda Armstrong

  • Techniques: Yoga poses like Child Pose, breath elongation, self-hugging, and gentle movements to regulate the nervous system.

Connect with me on IG: @mybloominghearttherapy