The Nervous System: The Boss of Our Mental, Emotional, and Physical Health
The nervous system is a complex network that acts as the supreme boss of our health, affecting not only our physical well-being but also our mental and emotional health.
Although many of us are not fully aware of its importance, this system regulates a vast range of bodily functions and responses, from the simple act of breathing to how we manage daily stress.
The Autonomic Nervous System: The Ruler of the Involuntary
To understand how the nervous system influences our health, it is useful to focus on the autonomic nervous system, a key division that controls automatic functions like breathing, digestion, and blood pressure regulation.
This system into two main parts:
- The sympathetic system, which activates the “fight or flight” response to stress.
- The parasympathetic system, which helps us relax and recover.
Stress and the Window of Tolerance
One of the most critical functions of the nervous system is helping us manage stress.
We all have a “window of tolerance” that allows us to face challenges without feeling overwhelmed.
However, when we experience constant stress—such as work problems or difficult relationships—this window can narrow.
This reduces our ability to handle even small stressors, leading to a disproportionate stress response that impacts our mental and emotional health.
The Importance of Conscious Breathing
Fortunately, there are ways to support our nervous system and expand our window of tolerance.
One of the simplest and most effective techniques is conscious breathing. By focusing on deep, controlled breathing, we can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.
This can be easily achieved by:
- Placing one hand on the abdomen and the other on the chest.
- Breathing deeply, feeling the abdomen rise and fall.
This practice not only helps us relax in the moment but also reduces overall stress levels if done regularly.
Integrating Relaxation Techniques into Daily Life
In addition to conscious breathing, other relaxation techniques such as:
- Meditation,
- Yoga,
- And mindfulness
can be extremely useful in managing stress and improving our mental health.
These practices not only help us relax but also teach us to be more aware of our emotional responses and develop greater resilience to stress.
The Silent Boss of Our Overall Health: A Conversation with Agnis J Peña-Toro
We invite you to watch the full interview with Agnis J Peña-Toro, Counselor, MA, LMHC, EAT, a mental health expert.
In the interview, essential topics such as the functioning of the nervous system and anxiety regulation are explored.
The Role of the Nervous System in Overall Health
The nervous system plays a crucial role in our overall health. It not only regulates vital physical functions but also has a profound impact on our mental and emotional health.
Being aware of how this system works and taking steps to support its functioning—such as practicing conscious breathing and other relaxation techniques—can have a significant impact on our well-being.
This article has been prepared by My Health Fair based on the content covered in the “Sin Salud Mental No Hay Salud” program of El Mundo Boston.
Our goal is to complement and disseminate this content as part of our commitment to educate and provide valuable information.
My Health Fair is dedicated to spreading health resources, recognizing their fundamental importance to the overall well-being of the Massachusetts community.
