In the course of one day, I had four different conversations with very busy women that all had the same theme. How do I lower my stress? How can I show up as a better healthier happier version of myself?  We’ve all heard the busier you are the more you need to make time for yourself. 

But, what does that look like and what are practical easy things to assist your body in the best way possible? One of the overlooked things for women is focusing on the parasympathetic nervous system, which has many benefits and can help you reach a more rested state.

One of the suggestions I have started using with clients is that on day 20 of your cycle (or the week of the full moon if you are not cycling) when your body needs to be making progesterone this is the time to lower your cortisol (stress hormones). Schedule the following into your calendar: meditation, breathing, yoga, and a float tank session.  

Also, remember no fasting this week as progesterone needs carbs. Up your healthy fruit and vegetable intake. For me, this is when I add in bananas, sweet potatoes, and oats. 

Maybe this list is unrealistic as your daily routine but let’s make it your wellness add-on once a month. Schedule it on your calendar as self-care, wellness, health care etc. or whatever word resonates most with you.

Being in a parasympathetic state, also known as the “rest and digest” mode of the autonomic nervous system, offers several benefits for women. Here are a few advantages:

1. Relaxation: The parasympathetic system helps promote relaxation and a sense of calm. It counteracts the “fight or flight” response associated with the sympathetic system, reducing stress levels and promoting a more peaceful state.

2. Digestion: Activation of the parasympathetic system enhances digestive functions by increasing blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract and stimulating the release of digestive enzymes. This promotes optimal digestion and nutrient absorption.

3. Heart health: The parasympathetic system helps regulate heart rate and lowers blood pressure. It promotes a slower and more regular heart rhythm, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health.

4. Immune system support: The parasympathetic system aids in immune system functioning by reducing inflammation and supporting the body’s healing processes. It allows the body to conserve energy and direct it towards immune responses when necessary.

5. Improved sleep: The parasympathetic state encourages relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and achieve restful sleep. It helps to balance the sleep-wake cycle and promotes better sleep quality.

Overall, being in a parasympathetic state has many benefits for women and allows the body to rest, recover, and perform essential functions optimally, contributing to holistic well-being.

Float therapy, also known as sensory deprivation or floatation therapy, involves floating in a tank or pod filled with a high-concentration Epsom salt solution, providing buoyancy and sensory isolation. Here are some potential benefits associated with float therapy:

1. Relaxation and stress reduction: The weightlessness and sensory isolation experienced during float therapy can induce deep relaxation and help alleviate stress. It provides a calm and peaceful environment away from external distractions, allowing the mind and body to unwind.

2. Pain relief and muscle relaxation: The buoyancy provided by the saltwater solution reduces pressure on joints and muscles, offering relief from pain and promoting muscle relaxation. Float therapy has been reported to help with chronic pain, fibromyalgia, and muscle tension.

3. Mental clarity and enhanced creativity: Floating can facilitate a meditative state and promote mental clarity. It allows for introspection and can enhance creativity, problem-solving abilities, and focus. Some individuals find that float therapy aids in visualization and mental imagery practices.

4. Improved sleep: Float therapy’s relaxation-inducing effects can contribute to better sleep quality. By reducing stress, alleviating muscle tension, and promoting a state of relaxation, it may help individuals fall asleep faster and experience more restful sleep.

5. Mind-body balance: Float therapy offers a break from sensory input, giving the nervous system a chance to recalibrate. This can help restore the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems, promoting overall well-being and enhancing the mind-body connection.

Check out my favorite place to float: Divine Float Spa in Downingtown.