With the fast-paced nature of daily life, increasing stress levels, and difficulty sleeping, the idea of calming your nervous system may seem complicated.
اضافة اعلان
However, general practitioner Dr. Sita Shah from PANDA London has revealed a simple trick that you might often do unconsciously, which can give you an instant feeling of relaxation and may even help with sleep.
Dr. Shah explained that some automatic movements we make unconsciously activate parts of the nervous system that are responsible for reducing stress and enhancing comfort.
One of these movements is lying on your side while raising the opposite arm upward, so that the upper arm touches the ear, similar to what some people do while watching TV on the couch.
Dr. Shah says that this position stimulates the vagus nerve and increases lymphatic fluid flow in the body. Additionally, raising the arm opens up the chest area, allowing for deeper and slower breathing, which in turn improves respiratory function.
This type of breathing enhances oxygen levels and regulates the autonomic nervous system, shifting the body from a "fight or flight" state to a "rest and digest" mode.
The impact doesn't stop there. Dr. Shah also notes that this position resembles the fetal position, which activates the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, a brain region responsible for regulating emotions and fostering a sense of safety.
For those seeking additional ways to calm down, Dr. Shah suggests singing, tidying up your home, or even watching your favorite show for the 50th time! She emphasizes that "exposure to the familiar makes the brain feel in control and gives a sense of comfort, leading to the release of happiness hormones like dopamine and oxytocin."
