Nervous System Notebook Chapter 1
Discussing mental health comes with so much nuance, not even a single blog post could scratch the surface of its complexities. I would never claim to be an expert on this subject matter, however, I’ve acquired tools through the years of trial and error that are worth sharing for your consideration. I didn’t learn how to utilize ‘nervous system regulation’ from reading a book. It came when I had a negative bank balance & one of my few options was to audition at my local strip club in hopes of earning a somewhat livable wage. It came through the years of uncertainty & homelessness. It came from choosing to live without the crutch, bandaid, or numbing agents.
Sure the books & courses helped me feel better equipped with the right tools, but they weren’t there holding my hand helping me regulate half naked in 7 inch platforms on a stage in front of hundreds of people. They sure weren’t there to help me cope through the harder nights of mistreatment or worse, abuse. It was up to me to apply the knowledge I had gained.
Knowledge without application is simply knowledge. Applying the knowledge to one’s life is wisdom — and that is the ultimate virtue”
―Kasi Kaye Iliopoulos
This marks our first chapter in The Herbalist Hangout’s Nervous System Notebook: what will hopefully become a conglomeration of resources for you to tap into. More will be added as time goes on, because as we should all know by now: with each new season of life comes new challenges to navigate.
So without further ado, here’s what’s currently working
(This is not to be taken as medical advice, always do your own independent research & assess your own health needs before considering if these tools are right for you)
Emotional Freedom Techniques - Tapping
I can’t emphasize this practice ENOUGH. Its one of the first tools I’m leaning into. Before the herbs, the supplements, or therapy sessions. It is one of the most easily accessible tools available to us (maybe that’s why its not more mainstream: there’s no money to be made from people who know how to support their emotional, mental, & nervous system health on their own). Would you be interested in hearing how I use EFT tapping to overcome anxiety, panic attacks, & depression? Let me know in the comments below.
Nutritional Support
When it comes to mental health one of the few things that can make or break our state of wellbeing is our nutritional intake (or lack of). I’m currently recommitting to the cycle-syncing protocols recommended by Alisa Vitti in her book In the Flo (Listed here in my Library) & am giving myself plenty of grace along the way.
If you are looking to work one on one with a holistic nutritionist my personal recommendation is Sarah from Earth & Eden Wellness. I can assure she will take the time to give an in depth consultation & the right support for your nutritional needs.
Long-term Nervous System Nourishment
These are the herbs I tend to run out of the quickest, but never let go out of stock in our household. I’m not always just looking to calm symptoms. I focus heavily on nourishing my nervous system (& gut health - if there’s two areas to focus on while supporting your mental health these areas are IT). The most accessible remedy is common old fashioned oats: yes, oatmeal! Its a rich source of complex carbohydrates, b vitamins, fiber, magnesium & other vital minerals that help support steady energy and overall nervous system function. Oatmeal also promotes balanced blood sugar levels, leading to ‘long-lasting’ nourishment, indirectly supporting our mood (no one’s getting hangry on oatmeal’s watch). This kitchen remedy acts a gentle demulcent coating the soft tissues of our body (anxious tummy troubles MVP right here). Oatmeal reminds us nervous system support often begins with consistently nourishing our bodies.
Milky Oat Tops is one of those restorative nutritive herbs that isn’t necessarily fast-acting, rather it works to support & restore an overworked or depleted nervous system slowly overtime. I often reach for this herb during periods of chronic stress, burnout, or emotional exhaustion. Its a neutral to slightly warming, moistening & soothing herb (if a hug was an herb, this may be it?). When I feel ‘wired but tired’ this is a tool coming out of my kit.
Oatstraw is a deeply mineral-rich herbal ally that has long been used to provide gentle nourishment for the nervous system. Its cooling and moistening qualities (demulcent) make it highly appreciated for soothing states of tension, depletion, dryness, & nervous system exhaustion. Rich in silica, calcium, magnesium, & trace minerals that support healthy nerve function while also benefiting bones, connective tissue, skin & hair. I incorporate this nourishing tonic to help build my resilience, replenish mineral reserves, and support overall vitality
Long-term nervous system support is just as, if not more important than treating symptoms. Let’s get to the root & build on a firm foundation before ANYTHING ELSE.
Next chapter we’ll be breaking down more of my holistic mental health tool kit: Fast acting herbal support for moments of anxiety, panic, & depression. If you are personally navigating supporting your mental health more holistically please know I am rooting for you & am always here if you need a holistic homie to hash it out with. Because healing wasn’t meant to be done alone.
More soon, stay gentle with yourself,
Sarah
Sources
In the Flo By Alisa Vitti
Medical Herbalism by David Hoffmann
An herbal guide to stress relief by David Hoffmann