Nervous System Love

3 Simple Ways to Calm Your Nervous System

When life feels overwhelming, it’s often our nervous system that takes the hit. Stress, anxiety, and even old patterns can keep the body in “fight or flight,” making it harder to think clearly, sleep well, or feel at ease. The good news? Small, intentional practices can bring your system back into balance. Here are three easy ways to calm your nervous system:

1. Breathe with Intention

Slow, steady breathing signals safety to your body. Try the 4-7-8 method: inhale through your nose for 4 counts, hold for 7, and exhale gently through your mouth for 8. Repeat 3–4 times to feel grounded and calm.

2. Ground Through Your Senses

Bring yourself into the present moment by noticing five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste. This sensory reset tells your brain you are safe right here, right now.

3. Gentle Movement

Tension often gets “stuck” in the body. Light stretching, a slow walk, or shaking out your arms and legs can release that built-up energy and soothe your nervous system. Even five minutes can make a difference.

Your nervous system thrives on signals of safety and care. By practicing these simple tools daily, you can shift out of stress and back into calm, clarity, and connection.

✨ Want more guided practices to support your nervous system? Explore my ebooks and meditation programs — designed to help you (or your teen) find calm, confidence, and emotional resilience. Head over to my ebooks and courses page here.

julie otte