When we get into the whirlwind of work and responsibilities, we don’t think about how deeply entrenched our stresses and tensions are. Often, however, malaise or deterioration of health is not only due to everyday problems, but also excessive exposure to stimuli that disturb our mind and body. Our nervous systems have limits, which perhaps you haven’t thought about before.
To avoid overstimulation of the nervous system, it’s good to start making small changes to your daily activities or habits. To begin this process, it is only necessary to decide to be more mindful and discover the boundaries of your own nervous system. Remember that over time, this limit will change and move, and your body will begin to rest more effectively.
Noise
Noise is not only loud sounds but also quiet but irritating tones. Judge for yourself what sounds you feel comfortable with, what is your level of annoyance, or how distracting they are. You may not be bothered by the sound of a washing machine turned on (or even spinning) but the noise of a badly tuned radio annoys you. Such awareness is very important in eliminating excess harmful stimuli. As a result of this observation, you may need to mute your headphones or listen to a certain type of music to be able to concentrate at work. Maybe you will discover that by listening to the news during the journey to work, you start the day with tension, so it would be better and more pleasant to listen to jazz or classical music. Be sure to also enjoy the sounds of nature, preferably live and daily. Take a few minutes to listen to the sounds of trees, birds, water or wind.
Light
All of our bodies have their own individual circadian rhythm, and light is one of the most important determinants. Even during foetal life the amount of light the baby is exposed to in the womb will allow it to distinguish day from the night! Later, our well-being deteriorates if during the day we do not provide the body with enough lights! So, especially in autumn and winter, try to use natural light as much as possible and see the effect on your well-being. If possible, position the desk so you work closer to the window. Use your free time to go outdoors during daylight hours and avoid flashing, nonsteady light. Moreover, try to reduce the amount of blue light, especially before bedtime, which inhibits the secretion of melatonin and the ability to sleep well.
Temperature and touch
Thermal comfort is also an aspect that has a significant impact on our positive well-being and inhibits negative behaviours. Therefore, the temperature of rooms should not make us feel too cold or too warm, because either state can weaken the whole body. It is also very important to stimulate the sense of touch, which can work wonders in terms of calming the nervous system and feelings of rest. Make sure that the clothes you wear do not irritate you; let the material be pleasant to the touch, and give freedom of movement. You can also try to cover your body during more stressful moments, e.g. with a sensory stimulating weighted blanket. Such cover is used in the therapy of insomnia and to inhibit the secretion of too much adrenaline. It will also be a good idea to replace the usual duvet with a sensory blanket, which has a soothing and calming effect on the nervous system through gentle stimulation of skin receptors.
