(Hint: It’s not just breathing)
This list is comprised of things I have implemented over the years. Do not attempt to do it all at once. Take your time and start with things that are doable for you. Count the ones you’re already doing as wins and write-off the ones that don’t resonate with you.
To keep it simple, I’m not going into detail on the “Whys” on the list. You can do research on the topics that interest you or let me know which topics you’d like to see in-depth articles about, I’d love to do some on any of these topics!
Some of these things may be “no-brainers” for you, but not everyone is as far on the journey. I hope you see something that sparks an idea for you, and please share with a friend who may like some new insights!
(This list contains affiliate links to items I use and trust, as suggestions. Of course, do your own research to find things that suit your specific lifestyle.)
With that being said, let’s get started!
Lifestyle hacks for a regulated nervous system:
- No synthetic fragrances (they cause hormone disruption and a list of other things)
- Get natural light in your eyes as close to waking as possible. Even on cloudy days going outside or even just sitting by a window for 20 minutes.
- Not getting on digital devices until after you have gotten this natural light in your eyes. If possible, giving your brain about an hour to fully “wake-up” before screen time can be extremely helpful.
- Mainstream deodorant is a major no-no. I battled so hard trying to find one that worked and didn’t irritate my skin. I found the brand Lume works the best for me. The sticks can still irritate my underarms a bit, but I use the tubes, and they work great!
- Assist your body in detox (especially heavy metals). I began taking chlorella a while back, and I don’t think I’ll ever stop! (Make sure you don’t take it at the same time as Vitamin C as that prevents the metals from binding with the chlorella and flushing from your system. Also, check with your doctor before taking new supplements.) Be sure to use a fermented or cracked cell wall chlorella. This is the one I like:
- Healing trauma (big or small) is very important.
- I began learning about “Childhood Emotional Neglect” and realized that even though my childhood seemed pretty “normal,” a lot of damage was done there that needed to be fixed. A great book for learning about the underlying C.E.N. piece of the puzzle is:
Emotional Neglect and the adult in therapy
- Diet is key
- Eat organic whenever possible (I’d say I eat about 80%+ organic)
- Shop at local co-ops or health food stores as your main grocer. Use big name grocers as secondary options. This helps to greatly limit toxins found in mainstream items
- Limit processed food or even better, completely cut it out
- Get out into nature. This helps reconnect to your natural rhythms. A short walk or even simply opening a window for fresh air. A few deep, conscious breaths of fresh air will do wonders
- Drink only filtered or “pure” water (never tap). I use Zero Water as an easy, less expensive go-to. For an under sink more comprehensive option, I’d go with something like a
- Never store food in plastic. If you must, make sure they are not acidic foods such as tomatoes. Since I cut out plastic, I use these:
- Do not watch, read, or listen to anything that triggers your nervous system response
- DO watch, read, and listen to things that speak to the type of person you WANT to be
- Positive content is extremely important in feeding the mental aspect of your nervous system. Reading things like:
- Listen to uplifting and motivational podcasts and audio books throughout your day. Not just the ones that make you feel good but the ones that actually teach you how to be the person you want to be
- Counseling/Therapy/Somatic Your nervous system can’t regulate if you don’t heal unearthed trauma. Trauma is not always as obvious as you may think
- Animals! Snuggling with your pets, walking them, petting them, etc. It’s proven that people with pets tend to live longer and feel happier overall. If you do not or can not have a pet. Volunteering time at a local animal shelter is a great way to boost your nervous system and give back, which also makes you feel great, win-win!
- No cooking in anything with PFAs “non-stick.” The safety of other “PFA free non-stick” options is up for debate. Cast iron, stainless steel, glass, or non-stick ceramic are preferred
- Replace laundry and dish detergents with cleaner options. (The chemicals from the detergents soak into your food and skin)
Grove Collaborative has some great options (along with tons of other healthier option items). Use my link^ for a free starter set!
- Switch to toothpaste that doesn’t have the typical SLS, floride, and other harmful chemicals. A great option is:
Shine remineralizing tooth powder
- I started using an air purifier in my bedroom about 4 years ago, and I have kept it on ever since! Air quality is EXTREMELY important, especially in the area where you spend your time sleeping. I use the one below because of the quality & reliability:
- Bring plants into your home! They uplift your spirits and assist with air purification (although they can’t do it all, hence the purifier, they are still amazing)
- Lotion and skincare products. Everything you put onto your skin is absorbed into your bloodstream! Make sure you are only using products that are free from any and all toxins
- Bedsheets and clothing. Again, a majority of clothing and bedding is riddled with toxic chemicals that contribute to dysregulation of the nervous system. Begin slowly replacing with healthier options like organic cotton, eucalyptus, or bamboo. Bed sheets are a great place to start:
- Avoid alcohol
- Creating a “happy” environment. Especially in the bedroom, upon waking, this can help set the tone for your day. Even if it is something small like a rock you found on your morning walk. Bringing beauty into your home can be easy and free!
- Taking adaptogens to assist your body with its natural stress response. This definitely will be an article all on its own. I take ashwaghanda and other adaptogens, which are shown to have a ton of benefits. (Talk to your doctor before taking anything new) I’ve found this one to make a noticeable difference:
This concludes the list for now. As I think of more things, I will continue to add to it. I hope you found something that could spark another step in the direction of nervous system regulation! Please share if you found it useful.
Soulfully Rich 
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