How To Holistically Heal...Let's Meet Your Regulated Nervous System

The Counterbalance To Fight, Flight, Freeze & Fawn

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In this edition…

1. HEALING: Let's Meet Your Regulated Nervous System

2. REVERENCE: Feeling Into A Regulated Nervous System

3. EXPLORING: A New Way To Meet Your Regulated Nervous System

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1. HEALING: Let's Meet Your Regulated Nervous System

The regulated nervous system is the foundation of a calm, balanced state, enabling the body to heal and maintain overall well-being.

At the heart of this system lies the ventral vagal pathway, a critical part of the parasympathetic nervous system. This pathway is responsible for keeping the body in a state of homoeostasis—its natural equilibrium. When we are in this regulated state, our nervous system nurtures a "rest & digest" or "social engagement" response, essential for restoration and connection. It is the counterbalance to Fight & Flight, Freeze & Fawn response to stress.

Activation of the ventral vagal pathway allows us to feel safe, grounded, and secure. In this state, the world feels inviting, and we can fully rest, recover, and renew. It’s here that we experience our fullest potential—feeling vibrant, alive, and capable. This is the optimal state for our body and mind to thrive.

The ventral vagal complex plays a crucial role in helping us self-regulate and maintain a sense of calm. It also supports our ability to:

• Socialise: Engaging with others feels easy and natural.

• Connect emotionally: We can feel close to others and share our emotions openly.

• Communicate effectively: Conversations flow smoothly, and we can express ourselves clearly.

• Feel compassion and empathy: We're able to care for and understand others' feelings.

• Stay calm and grounded: We feel centered and stable, even when faced with challenges.

This is the state we want to return to after moments of stress. It’s where healing occurs and where we can build meaningful connections with others.

How a Regulated Nervous System Shows Up in the Mind & Body

When the nervous system is regulated, it brings the body and mind into a state of equilibrium. This is when we experience a sense of calm, connection, and overall well-being. Here's how a regulated nervous system might show up:

• Conservation of energy: The body slows the heart rate, helping conserve energy.

• Improved digestion and intestinal motility: The digestive system functions smoothly, allowing for proper absorption and bowel movements.

• Increase in saliva and digestive enzymes: This is why it's best to eat in a relaxed state, as stress can hinder digestion.

• Boosted immune response: The immune system is more active, helping to protect against illness.

• Better circulation to non-vital organs like the skin, supporting overall health.

• Increased oxytocin: Often called the “love and connection hormone,” oxytocin helps us feel bonded and safe.

• Regulated heart rate and blood pressure: The heart functions optimally, supporting cardiovascular health.

• Full, deep breathing: Breathing becomes more expansive and relaxed.

• Quality sleep: The body can fully rest and repair, leading to restorative sleep.

The Conditions Associated with a Regulated Nervous System

When our nervous system is regulated, we are better equipped to manage life’s challenges. Here are some conditions and abilities associated with this state:

• Resist infection and build immunity: A strong immune system helps fight off illness.

• Digest, absorb, and move our bowels: Proper digestion and elimination keep the body functioning well.

• Relate and connect: We can engage with others, building meaningful relationships.

• Recognise when we are supported: We feel secure in our connections and know when help is available.

• Feel joy and compassion: Emotions like happiness and empathy come more naturally.

• Playful and creative: We can engage in play, explore creativity, and enjoy the lighter side of life.

• Present and still: We can sit in stillness and silence without a racing mind, fully embracing the present moment.

• Feel grounded: There’s a sense of stability, as if we’re well-rooted in our body and environment.

• Well-resourced and resourceful: We have the energy and mental clarity to navigate life’s demands.

• Act from instinct and intuition: Our decisions flow from a place of inner knowing and trust.

The Common Cues of Safety and Regulation

When our nervous system is regulated, we experience cues of safety both internally and externally. These cues help us feel grounded, connected, and at ease. Here are some examples: