Nurturing the Nervous System in Unsettled Times

Lately, the world feels loud, tense, and heavy. A lot is happening; in our communities, in our country, and in our bodies as we try to process it all. It all feels very chaotic and heavy, crazy and sad.

When events feel shocking or upsetting, it’s easy to stay stuck in a constant state of alert. Tight shoulders. Shallow breath. Racing thoughts. A nervous system that never quite gets to rest. And our flight mode is stuck in ON.

While staying informed and caring about what’s happening matters, so does tending to yourself. Grounding, slowing down, and coming back into your body isn’t avoidance; it’s how we stay sane, present, and compassionate.

Here are a few gentle, simple ways to support your nervous system right now.

Come Back to the Breath

When things feel overwhelming, return to your breath.
Place one hand on your belly, one on your heart. Inhale slowly through your nose, letting your belly soften. Exhale just as slowly.
A few deep breaths can signal to your body that you’re safe in this moment.

Slow the Body

You don’t need intense workouts right now.
A short walk, gentle stretching, or slow yoga can help release stored tension and bring you back into your body. Movement doesn’t have to be hard to be healing.

Create a Small Daily Ritual

Light a candle in the morning or evening.
Burn incense.
Hold a crystal — selenite for clearing, amethyst for calm, rose quartz for softness.
Let these small rituals mark a pause in your day where nothing is required of you.

Soothe Through Touch

Warm oil on your hands, feet, or scalp can be incredibly grounding.
Move slowly. Massage and breathe. Let your body know it’s cared for.

Clear Your Space, Clear Your Mind

Sometimes nervous energy needs an outlet.
Tidy one small area. Clear a surface. Open a window. Light some smudge or incense.
As your space softens, so does your nervous system.

Keep It Simple

This is not the season for complicated routines.
Simple food. Regular rest. Gentle movement. Fresh air.
Consistency matters more than intensity.

Lean on Your People

We are not meant to hold everything alone.
This is a time to lean into community, friends, and family; to talk things out, sit together, share meals, check in, and remind one another that we’re not isolated in how we’re feeling. Even a short conversation or a shared moment can help regulate the nervous system and bring a sense of safety and belonging. “Doing” helps you feel empowered and like you can make a difference. Connection is grounding. Being seen and supported matters.

These are tender times.
The world may feel uncertain, but you can create moments of steadiness within your own body and within your circle.

Slow down when you can. Breathe deeply. Care for your nervous system. Lean on the people who love you, and let yourself be held.

Grounding ourselves is how we stay rooted, compassionate, and present as the world shifts. And it’s from that grounded place that real change begins.

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Anyone who knows me knows I care deeply about what’s happening in our communities and across the country. While Soulful Abundance is not a political space, I want to be clear about my values.

I stand with immigrants. I stand with peaceful protest. I stand against ICE as it is currently operating, against unlawful actions taken against U.S. citizens and those here legally, against violence in all forms, against the invasion of any country, and against illegal actions by our government.

These values come from a place of care, humanity, and a belief in peace, dignity and safety for all.