Calming the Nervous System

We are a Starbucks generation , go, go, go, go GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO at all costs. Even when you are tired; add a little caffeine, some 5 hour, ginko etc. just to keep going. As a fitness and lifestyle expert, people come to me looking to GET to the next thing. They want me to take them to their goals FASTER, to jump in my sidecar and for me to drive the motorcycle at high speeds…GOOOOOOO.
I’m happy to don the goggles and scarf, but typically, thats NOT what the body needs.
All of the marvelous changes that can occur in our bodies happen during the resting stage.

Most people are not getting enough rest or calm in their life. It is a true test of self, you gain real control when you finally LET GO. It seems oxymoronic. Do LESS to get more? Roll that around in your mouth, then swallow. It’s true. We have been been sold a bill of goods in our fitness culture, of FAST, quick, pills, secret elixirs and food depravation. When all we really need is to accept ourselves, be WITH ourselves a little more in a a CALM and relaxed space.
If it’s difficult for you wind down there are natural supplements that can assist (speaking of magic elixirs….see the world is full of wonderful hypocrisy.)
Magnesium in general assists proper muscle health. you can get it many places, I’m a fan of this one
This one aides the nervous systems capacity to quiet. No magnesium but other recognizable ingredients like chamomile and kava kava Liquid Calm
Give it a try, you’ll be shocked at how well you sleep and how great the reward is of slowing and calming down.

2 Responses to “Calming the Nervous System”

  1. lte722  on July 29th, 2010

    Hi Tandy,
    I love what you are doing and appreciate all the great advice you give.
    I too am a full time mother and wife and a full time career woman.
    I love this current piece of advice! I recommend the “let go” or “acceptance” philosophy to anyone in my reach that has stress. I tell people to accept it, make it yours, don’t try to fight it, and you will be in control; don’t try to have absolute control either or it will bite you. I also try to make people understand that when you worry about something you tend to hold your breath preventing oxygen getting to your brain thus no allowing you to think clearly. The same goes for worrying about your body image.
    I do this for myself now that I have decided I really want to have a rockin’ body. When I feel especially out of control with my body change I write in my journal and ease myself back to reality, knowing that change takes time.
    I gave myself a realistic goal, 6 months, but also understand that life get in the way of goals sometimes and I need to be flexible.

  2. admin  on August 1st, 2010

    It’s incredible what ‘ease’ can create in your life. I am still learning it, every day. I love the journaling, it’s a big component for me as well. I also suggest clients choose 3 adjectives that they want their body to be (a little mantra) that can be repeated over and over while doing cardio. What we tell ourselves, becomes true. I love hearing the adjectives my clients come up with. Some are completely unexpected and marvelous. Every day is a tomorrow (my 3 year old son LOVES saying that) and it’s so important, no guilt just a day to do, or try again.
    Keep at it, whatever your goal, you are supported!


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