Hacks to Calm your Nervous System

Quick & Easy Hacks to Calm Your Nervous System

1. Breathwork – Box Breathing

A simple yet powerful technique to bring calm into your system is box breathing:

• Inhale for four counts
• Hold for four counts
• Exhale for four counts
• Hold for four counts

Repeat this for a minute or two, or as long as needed. Focusing on your breath brings you into the present moment, pulling you away from stress and anxiety. Since these feelings often stem from worrying about the future, practicing mindfulness through breathwork signals to your nervous system that everything is alright in the here and now.

2. Movement

Set a timer for one minute and move however feels natural to you; shake, jump, do jumping jacks, dance, or touch your toes. It may feel silly at first, but you’ll quickly notice a shift in your energy and maybe even a smile on your face!

Movement helps release any negative energy stored in the body and boosts positivity. A quick burst of activity can re-energize your system, leaving you feeling lighter and more balanced.

3. Get Outside and Be Present

Step outside, even if the weather isn’t perfect. Feel the wind, sun, or rain on your skin, and tune into your senses; what do you hear, smell, and see around you?

You don’t need to take a long walk; just five minutes of fresh air can clear your mind, slow down, and help you feel more grounded. You’ll never regret taking a moment to connect with nature!

4. Ground Yourself

If possible, place your bare feet or hands on the grass, sand, or seawater. Let the earth’s energy help you feel centered and calm. If you can’t get outside, listening to a grounding meditation (such as the beautiful one by the Soul Sisters here) can bring balance to your system and ground you in the moment.

5. Massage: A Lasting Solution for Relaxation

Massage is another way to calm your nervous system. It reduces cortisol levels (the stress hormone) while increasing the production of feel-good hormones like endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin. The benefits of massage extend beyond the session, leaving you feeling relaxed and balanced for hours or even days afterward.

If you’re in Galway and looking for a deeper way to relax, why not try a mobile massage? Let us bring the healing power of touch directly to you. Book a session today and give yourself the gift of relaxation!