You’re absolutely right in how you’ve described the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. They are like the body’s yin and yang, forming the autonomic nervous system that controls many involuntary actions. When it comes to stress, the sympathetic system kicks in to prepare us for ‘fight or flight’ — it’s a bit like having a built-in survival tool. But when we’re constantly stressed, this system gets overworked, which isn’t great for our health in the long run.
The parasympathetic system, on the other hand, promotes the ‘rest and digest’ mode, slowing down the heart rate, promoting digestion, and allowing the body to relax and repair itself. It kinda acts like a counterbalance to the otherwise ever-ready-to-float-away sympathetic system — supporting homeostasis by encouraging relaxation and conservation of energy.
In Ayurveda, we often turn to practices that can help calm the mind, reducing that constant ‘on’ button of the sympathetic system. Pranayama, exactly as you mentioned, is one of these practices. Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing), for instance, can be particularly effective in balancing the nervous system as it encourages deep breathing, calming the mind and nurturing the body at the same time.
Another fantastic practice is meditation, which when translated into daily routine can have profound effects — it gently nudges the parasympathetic system to take lead. Regular meditation can significantly reduce the body’s chronic response to stress, increasing clarity and reducing anxiety.
Herbal remedies? Sure, there are quite a few Ayurvedic herbs that are known for their calming effects. Ashwagandha is famous for balancing stress and fatigue. Brahmi is another great brain tonic helping your mind stay calm and focused.
But, small tweaks to lifestyle can also help. Establishing a consistent daily routine and incorporating grounding activities in your day to day is essential. Start your morning with a light yoga practice to keep vata (the energetic force of movement) balanced as it’s directly related to the nervous system.
Food-wise, eating a diet that’s warm, nourishing and easy to digest supports the parasympathetic system. Think soups, stews, and warm drinks. Avoid caffeine and sugar when you can too, they can fire up the sympathetic response.
Everyone’s constitution or ‘prakriti’ is different, so what works for one person might not work for another. Listen to your body, try different practices, and find what feels good for you. And remember, when stress hits hard, seeking professional advice is always a good call!
