Parasympathetic Nervous System and Reiki

The Parasympathetic Nervous System and Reiki

In the months leading up to my mother’s passing, I began experiencing something that frightened me.

The overwhelming reality of what was coming would sometimes become too much for me to process. My body would freeze. I could see and breathe, but I couldn't speak, move, or respond to anyone around me. Even when someone spoke directly to me, it was as though they weren't there. I couldn't snap myself out of it.

It was terrifying.

I later learned about the nervous system's response to overwhelming stress, including the freeze response.

Your sympathetic nervous system controls your “fight-or-flight” response. In response to danger or stress, you may experience:

• Enlarged pupils to let more light in and improve your vision.

• Increased heart rate to improve the delivery of oxygen to other parts of your body.

• Relaxed airway muscles to improve oxygen delivery to your lungs.

• Slowed down digestion so its energy is diverted to other areas of your body.

• Activated energy stores in your liver to an energy that can be used quickly.

While our sympathetic nervous system plays an important role in protecting us from danger, prolonged stress can keep our bodies in a heightened state of alertness, making it difficult to fully relax. It is well known that anxiety and chronic stress can strain your sympathetic nervous system. Over time, that can increase your risk of obesity and other metabolic problems.

This is one reason I believe creating space for rest is so important. Reiki is one practice that may help promote relaxation and reduce feelings of stress. During a session, you're given the opportunity to slow down, feel supported, and allow your body and mind to rest.

When we relax, our parasympathetic nervous system, often called our "rest and digest" system, helps regulate functions such as heart rate and digestion and supports our body's natural recovery processes. Sometimes we don't realize how much stress we're carrying until we finally give ourselves permission to rest. If you've been feeling overwhelmed or simply need a moment of peace, I invite you to experience a Reiki session.

Note: Reiki is a complementary wellness practice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure medical conditions or replace professional medical care.

Sources: "Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS)" – Cleveland Clinic

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