10 Proven Ways to Switch on Your Parasympathetic Nervous System and Feel Instantly Calmer
Jenna Autuori Dedic
March 31, 2020
CaptionWhen you or a loved one are in danger—real or imagined—your body’s flight-or-fight response kicks in to help you survive a threatening situation. We’re all spending a lot more time in this mode than usual right now. Unfortunately, this type of constant “activation” can interfere with sleep, increase the risk of health problems and weaken the immune system. The good news? You already have what you need to get you out of fight-or-flight mode: Your own body’s parasympathetic nervous system. Here are 15 ways to switch this system on and trigger your body’s natural relaxation response anytime you need it.Getty ImagesHave you ever heard of the mammalian diving reflex? It’s a natural response that happens when a human or another mammal dips his face into cold water. The parasympathetic nervous system kicks in to quickly drop heart rate, relax the body and conserve oxygen. Dialectical behavioral therapy experts recommend it to clients with anxiety, addiction, depression and other issues as a way to change their moods fast. To do it at home, hold your breath and plunge your face into a large bowl or sink full of cold water or drape a cold pack over your cheeks and eyes. Hold your breath for up to 30 seconds, and repeat until you feel yourself calming down.
