6 SYMPTOMS OF A DYSREGULATED NERVOUS SYSTEM

Loren Hogue

Feeling off-balance or constantly stressed? Your nervous system might be dysregulated. As Co-CEO of NEUROFIT, I've seen and lived the relationship between a balanced nervous system and overall well-being firsthand. Let's explore the six common symptoms of a dysregulated nervous system, and practical steps to address them.

What is a Dysregulated Nervous System?

A dysregulated nervous system occurs when your body's stress response remains activated even in the absence of immediate threats. This chronic state can lead to various physical, emotional, and mental health issues. My journey with NEUROFIT began after experiencing severe burnout and chronic stress. Both my husband Andrew and I faced our own battles with nervous system dysregulation, which led us to create NEUROFIT to help others.

Symptom 1: Chronic Anxiety

Chronic anxiety is one of the most common signs of a dysregulated nervous system. You may feel constantly on edge, worried, or fearful without any clear reason. This anxiety can significantly affect your daily life, making it harder to both focus and relax.

This most often comes from stress building up in the body over time:

Practical Tip: Daily check-ins can help you become more aware of your anxiety levels. The NEUROFIT app encourages daily check-ins to help you reflect on your current state and identify how different life areas affect your nervous system.

Symptom 2: Persistent Fatigue

Feeling tired all the time, even after a good night's sleep, is another symptom. This chronic fatigue can make it difficult to get through your day, leaving you feeling drained and unproductive.

Practical Tip: Engage in regular physical activity. Aim for at least 10 minutes of exercise daily. According to NEUROFIT community data, users who prioritize regular exercise report 22% higher HRV and better emotional balance.

Symptom 3: Digestive Issues

Digestive problems like bloating, indigestion, or IBS can also indicate a dysregulated nervous system. Chronic stress affects your gut health, leading to these uncomfortable symptoms.

Practical Tip: Practice mindful eating and avoid late-night meals. NEUROFIT members who avoid eating close to bedtime report better sleep quality and improved digestive health.

Symptom 4: Insomnia

Difficulty falling or staying asleep is a common issue for those with a dysregulated nervous system. Insomnia can exacerbate other symptoms, creating a vicious cycle of stress and poor sleep.

Practical Tip: Establish a consistent bedtime routine to support a regular circadian rhythm. Avoid screens and heavy meals before bed. NEUROFIT users who follow a consistent sleep-wake cycle report 5% higher HRV.

Symptom 5: Emotional Volatility

Mood swings, irritability, and emotional outbursts are signs that your nervous system is struggling to maintain balance. These emotional changes can strain your relationships and overall well-being.

Practical Tip: Incorporate stillness practices like meditation or Heart Focused Breathing into your daily routine. Spend at least 10 minutes a day in stillness to improve your emotional balance.

Symptom 6: Chronic Pain

Unexplained aches and pains, such as headaches or muscle tension, can indicate nervous system dysregulation. Chronic stress can cause your muscles to remain tense, leading to persistent discomfort.

Practical Tip: Use somatic exercises like Cannon breath or Tree Shaking to release tension and shift your nervous system from a negative state to a positive one. According to our data, 95% of users experience stress relief within five minutes of somatic exercises.

How to Address Nervous System Dysregulation

Daily Check-ins

Regularly checking in with your nervous system can strengthen your mind-body connection and reduce stress. The NEUROFIT app encourages daily check-ins, allowing you to reflect on your current state and identify how different life areas are affecting your nervous system.

Somatic Exercises

Engaging in body-based exercises, like Body Tapping or Cannon breath, can help shift your nervous system from a negative state to a positive one and switch off your body's stress response in just three minutes.

Physical Exercise

Physical movement is a powerful tool for nervous system regulation. Aim for at least 10 minutes of exercise daily. This can be as simple as a brisk walk or a short workout. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural stress relievers.

Stillness Practices

Incorporating daily stillness practices like meditation or deep breathing exercises can help calm your nervous system. Spend at least 10 minutes a day in stillness to improve your sleep quality and overall sense of well-being.

Social Play

Engaging in social activities can help balance your nervous system. Whether it's playing a sport, attending a social gathering, or even a simple chat with a friend, social play can significantly improve your mood and emotional stability.

My Journey and Insights

My journey with NEUROFIT began after the sudden passing of my father, which left me navigating chronic grief, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. Andrew, my husband and co-founder, also faced similar health challenges due to his upbringing in a neurodiverse family. Together, we created NEUROFIT to provide a simple and highly effective solution for nervous system regulation. Our app has helped our average active user report 54% less stress within just one week.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a dysregulated nervous system?

A dysregulated nervous system is when your body remains in a constant state of stress, even in the absence of immediate danger. This can lead to chronic anxiety, fatigue, and other health issues.

How can I tell if my nervous system is dysregulated?

Common signs include chronic anxiety, fatigue, insomnia, and digestive issues. Regular self-assessment can help identify the state of your nervous system.

How does the NEUROFIT app help with nervous system regulation?

The NEUROFIT app offers daily check-ins, personalized somatic exercises, and biometric measurements to help manage and reduce stress, making it easier to maintain a balanced nervous system.

Can lifestyle changes help me heal my nervous system?

Absolutely. Proper sleep, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding stressors can significantly improve the health of your nervous system.

Balancing your nervous system is a journey, but with the right tools and practices, it's entirely achievable. Start today and experience the profound impact it can have on your life. For a guided approach to nervous system regulation, try using specialized tech like NEUROFIT.

Balance your nervous system, reduce stress, and feel your best with NEUROFIT.