How to Activate the Sympathetic Nervous System

Key Takeaways:

• The stress response is not a bad thing; it’s what allows us to respond to challenges, both “good” and “bad.”
• Invoking the parasympathetic nervous system can help keep our body and brain in balance–and make us more resilient to stress.
• This works best if we do it proactively and regularly, instead of waiting until we’re in crisis.
• There are many different ways to activate the parasympathetic nervous system so keep looking until you find one that works for you. 

Lab Experiment:

Step 1: Play the field. Take some time to research and try out a bunch of different things. (See the worksheet for ideas.)

Step 2: Pick your favorite(s) and schedule time at least once a day to make this a regular practice.

Step 3: Notice how you feel and function when you make time to shift into neutral.

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