Understand the Nervous System
An Overview
— The Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)
The Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) is the body’s autopilot , managing essential functions effortlessly and instinctively. Its primary mission? To keep you safe and alive at all costs. The ANS regulates involuntary processes like heartbeat, breathing, blood pressure and digestion — essential systems that keep your body functioning.
Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS)
The “gas pedal,” priming your body in times of stress or excitement.
Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS)
The "break" which promotes rest, relaxation and recovery.
Your Nervous System’s Threat Detectors
Your nervous system is always on alert, assessing for safety or danger through two key processes.
Neuroception — Monitors external threats in your surroundings.
Interoception — Detects internal signals within your body.
Every moment, your nervous system evaluates and labels experiences as “safe,” “dangerous” or “life-threatening.”
Regulation & Dysregulation — The Two Modes
Regulation
When in Regulation, you experience the best of life — presence, energy, joy and connection. This state fosters a sense of belonging, wellbeing and clarity.
| Regulation looks and feels like | |
|---|---|
| resilience | security |
| calm | optimistic |
| presence | compassion |
| connection | groundedness |
| engagement | balance |
| openness | stability |
| curiosity | harmony |
Dysregulation
In states of Activation (Sympathetic), Depletion (Dorsal) or Overload (Freeze), the body often experiences discomfort or symptoms of stress, which can impact both your physical and mental health.
| Dysregulation looks and feels like | |
|---|---|
| anxiety | hypervigilance |
| numbness | stress |
| confusion | withdrawal |
| anger | distraction |
| reactivity | indecision |
| overwhelm | defensiveness |
| exhaustion | frustration |
What Causes Dysregulation?
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but below are some factors that can contribute to nervous system dysregulation.
① Early Experiences: Childhood caregiving, gestational trauma, early relationships
② Isolation and Lack of Connection: Limited social support or community
③ Stress and Trauma: Financial worries, work stress, exposure to violence
④ Lifestyle Choices: Poor diet, sleep deprivation, excessive exercise, chronic pain
⑤ Health Conditions: Genetics, chronic illness, exposure to toxins or mold
⑥ Substance Use: Alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, recreational drugs
⑦ Cultural and Societal Pressures: Perfectionism, societal expectations, technology overuse
⑧ Environmental Factors: Sensory overload, noise, high-pressure environments
