Strengthen Your Nervous System the Natural Way: 10 Tips

Billions of cells come together to form the human body. These building blocks are the most basic units of life that work in complete symphony as a coordinated whole to enable all our bodily functions. Our ability to move around, eat, breathe, reproduce, and carry out every activity that qualifies us as living beings depends upon the proper functioning of these cells.

When your body is presented with a stimulus, the different cells in different organs work in tandem to produce a proper response. This coordination is helmed by the nervous system, which is the motherboard of the body. It consists of a complex network of the autonomic, motor, and sensory nerves, which are involved in everything that the body does.

The nervous system reacts to changes both outside and inside the body by using electrical and chemical means for the transmission and reception of messages to and from the brain, the spinal cord, and other sensory organs.

It plays a vital role in many important functions of the body, including regulating breathing and digestion, controlling movements, and regulating temperature.

Symptoms of a Weak Nervous System

Any trouble with the nervous system can seriously affect your quality of life. Symptoms of a weak nervous system vary depending upon which part of the system is affected and may be mild or severe.

Some of these symptoms are:

• Shortness of breath
• Headaches
• Excessive sweating
• Muscle weakness
• Poor memory
• Difficulty concentrating
• Twitching
• Pain
• Numbness and burning sensations in the hands and feet

Tips to Strengthen the Nervous System

To reduce the risk of suffering from a weak nervous system, it is essential to take charge of your health. With simple lifestyle and dietary changes, you can strengthen your nervous system and lead a healthy life. Also, there are a number of easy-to-follow home remedies that can be of great help.

Here are 10 ways you can improve the functioning of your nervous system.

Lifestyle Changes

1. Practice Deep Breathing

This simple yet effective technique can be very beneficial for those with a weak immune system. It can help you relax and reduce stress.

Deep breathing improves your body’s healing abilities and counteracts the effects of stress and anxiety.^[7]

1. Lie down or sit in a comfortable position, putting your hands on your abdomen.
2. Take a deep breath through your nose, expanding your abdomen and then filling your lungs with air.
3. Hold your breath for 3 seconds. Then, breathe out slowly through your mouth and empty your lungs.
4. Continue to inhale and exhale deeply for 5 to 10 minutes.
5. Enjoy a short session of deep breathing 2 or 3 times a day.

2. Walk Barefoot

Walking barefoot on the moist earth, soft grass, or a sandy beach for about 30 minutes daily can greatly benefit your nervous system and overall health.

Walking barefoot enables the electrons of the earth’s surface to transfer into your body. This, in turn, promotes physiological changes and improves your health.

A 2012 study published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health highlights the manifold benefits of “earthing” (walking barefoot), such as improvement in blood viscosity, heart rate variability, inflammation, cortisol dynamics, sleep, autonomic nervous system balance, and stress level.^[8]

• Walk barefoot on grass, particularly in the morning, to balance your nervous system.

3. Spend Time in the Sun

Sunlight helps regulate the nervous system by helping the body produce vitamin D.

A 2013 study published in Pharmacological Reports shows the connection between vitamin D deficiency and increased risk of diseases of the central nervous system, particularly schizophrenia and multiple sclerosis.^[9]

Also, a 2009 study published in Psychoneuroendocrinology highlights the role of vitamin D₃ in central nervous system functioning, especially in relation to nervous system pathologies and aging.^[10]

• Expose your body to early morning sunlight without using any sunscreen for 10 to 15 minutes daily to boost your vitamin D levels.
• You can also get vitamin D from certain foods. Salmon, tuna, milk, eggs, and fortified breakfast cereals are rich in vitamin D.
• You can opt to take a supplement, only after consulting with your doctor.

4. Try Yoga and Meditation

Make yoga and meditation a part of your daily routine to strengthen your nervous system.^[11][20] The combination of the three elements of yoga – poses (asanas), meditation (dhyana) and proper breathing practice (pranayama) – helps strengthen the peripheral nervous system.

Furthermore, yoga is good for elevating mood, reducing cortisol level, boosting the immune system, and increasing overall physical and mental well-being.

Some of the yoga poses that are beneficial for the nervous system include: Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose), Viparita Dandasana (Inverted Staff Pose), Adho MukhaVrksasana (Handstand Pose), Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose), Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand Pose), Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend Pose), Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose) and Shavasana (Corpse Pose).

5. Exercise is an Effective Stimulant

Regular exercise is also important in strengthening the nervous system.

A 2005 study published in Current Sports Medicine Reports, points out that regular exercise has profound effects on numerous biologic systems in the body, including the central nervous system, and can influence psychological well-being and cognitive function.^[15]

• Walking, running, jogging, swimming, and bicycling are a few examples of physical activities that can be helpful in keeping the nervous system healthy.

Consult your doctor to find out what exercises will be most suitable for you.

6. Fix Yourself an Epsom Salt Bath

An Epsom salt bath can also be beneficial for the nervous system. It helps muscles and nerves to function properly.^[16] The magnesium present in this ingredient also helps increase the mood-elevating hormone serotonin in the brain,^[13] which reduces stress and promotes relaxation.

1. Add 1 cup of Epsom salt to warm bathwater and stir thoroughly.
2. Soak in this water for 20 minutes.
3. Enjoy an Epsom salt bath once or twice a week.

Dietary Interventions

7. Add Magnesium to Your Diet

This mineral is important for a healthy nervous system. The deficiency of magnesium has an inhibitory effect on several neurotransmitters that support signal transmission between nerve cells.^[12]

Furthermore, it aids the body’s production of serotonin, which relaxes the nervous system and elevates mood.^[13] It even promotes muscle relaxation.

• Eat foods rich in magnesium. Spinach, dark chocolate, lettuce, bananas, apricots, almonds, walnuts, lentils, brown rice, and pumpkin seeds are a few examples of such food.
• You can also opt for a magnesium supplement. Consult your doctor for the correct dosage.

8. Consume Foods Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Start eating foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids in order to reduce the risk of a weak nervous system.

Omega-3 fatty acids – eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) – are important for the development and functioning of the central nervous system. These fatty acids are necessary for proper neuron functioning and to improve nerve transmissions.

A 2008 study published in Neuromolecular Medicine points out the neurological benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically in reducing the risk of neurodegenerative conditions and acute neurological injury.⁽¹⁴⁾

• Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids in your diet. Flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, sardines, salmon, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, spinach, and canola oil are a few examples.
• You can opt to take omega-3 fatty acid supplements, after consulting your doctor.

9. Drink Green Tea

Green tea has a positive impact on your nervous system. L-theanine, an amino acid found in green tea, helps increase levels of dopamine and serotonin.^[17] This, in turn, improves mood and reduces stress.

Furthermore, the caffeine in green tea helps increase alertness, focus, concentration, and thinking ability.^[18]

Also, green tea is packed with antioxidants, which benefit the cardiovascular autonomic nervous system and reduce the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease.

1. Add 1 teaspoon of green tea leaves or a green tea bag to 1 cup of hot water.
2. Cover and steep for 5 minutes.
3. Strain, sweeten with raw honey and drink it.
4. Drink only 2 to 3 cups of green tea daily.

10. Chamomile Helps Your Mind Relax

This popular herb can be used as a mild sedative to calm the nerves and reduce anxiety. It can even be helpful in dealing with hysteria, nightmares, insomnia, and other sleep problems.

A 2012 study published in Phytotherapy Research found positive effects of chamomile essential oil on central nervous system functioning.^[19]

• Add 2 teaspoons of dried chamomile to 1 cup of hot water. Cover and steep for 5 minutes. Strain, add raw honey for the taste and drink it. Drink 2 to 3 cups of chamomile tea daily.
• Also, add a few drops of chamomile essential oil to warm bath water and soak in it for 15 minutes to soothe your nerves.

The study of essential oils has increased dramatically. Many medical benefits from essential oils are now being characterized at the biochemical level. A comprehensive and up-to-date review article summarizes the usefulness of essential oils in the context of the nervous system.^[21]

The Nervous System is Broadly Divided into the Following:

• Central nervous system: consists of the brain and spinal cord, which serve as the control panel of the body to process the information received from all parts of the body as well as the environment.
• Peripheral nervous system: consists of vast neural networks that connect your central nervous system to the rest of your body.

The nervous system that encompasses the functioning of the entire body follows a three-part process:

• The central nervous system receives sensory input from the body as well as any external stimuli through specialized nerve cells known as neurons.
• The sensory message received is then processed and interpreted by the central nervous system.
• Finally, the central nervous system relays the message for an appropriate response via the neurons in the form of electrical impulses to different sensory organs.

Problems with Your Nervous System can Occur due to:

• Poor blood circulation^[1]
• Trauma^[2]
• Compression of the nerves
• Nerve dysfunction
• Side effects of drugs or toxic substances^[3]
• Nutritional deficiencies of vitamins B₆ and B₁₂ and magnesium^[4][5]

Furthermore, chronic stress increases the activity of the sympathetic nervous system and affects the autonomic nervous system.^[6]

This results in hyperactivity, cardiovascular stress, muscle tension, and other intensified functions, thus leading to the malfunction of nerve cells and other problems.

Additional Tips

• Do not smoke or use other tobacco products.
• Get plenty of rest and sleep after a long hectic day.
• Get your blood sugar and high blood pressure under control.
• Drink plenty of water and other fluids, as dehydration is not good for the nervous system.
• Limit your intake of caffeinated and alcoholic drinks.
• Strive to learn new skills to increase your attention span and keep you focused.
• End a bath with a few seconds of a cold shower to stimulate your nervous system. However, avoid the head region.
• Do not use non-prescribed medicines.
• Protect yourself from head injuries and accidents.

Resources:

1. DeBaun MR, Kirkham FJ. Central nervous system complications and management in sickle cell disease. Blood Journal. http://www.bloodjournal.org/content/127/7/829?sso-checked=true. Published February 18, 2016.
2. Menorca RMG, Fussell TS, Elfar JC. Peripheral Nerve Trauma: Mechanisms of Injury and Recovery. Hand Clinics. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4408553/. Published August 2013.
3. Grosset DG, Grosset KA. Prescribed drugs and neurological complications. Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry. https://jnnp.bmj.com/content/75/suppl_3/iii2. Published September 1, 2004.
4. Kumar N. Neurologic Presentations of Nutritional Deficiencies. Plum X Metrix. https://www.neurologic.theclinics.com/article/S0733-8619(09)00062-0/abstract. Published February 2010.
5. Sethi NK, Robilotti E, Sadan Y. Neurological Manifestations Of Vitamin B-12 Deficiency. The Internet Journal of Health. http://ispub.com/IJNW/2/1/4476. Published December 31, 2004.
6. Teixeira RR, Díaz MM, Santos TVda S. Chronic Stress Induces a Hyporeactivity of the Autonomic Nervous System in Response to Acute Mental Stressor and Impairs Cognitive Performance in Business Executives. PLoS One. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4373764/. Published March 25, 2015.
7. Ma X, Yue ZQ, Gong ZQ, et al. The Effect of Diaphragmatic Breathing on Attention, Negative Affect and Stress in Healthy Adults. Frontiers in Psychology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28626434. Published June 6, 2017.
8. Oschman JL, Chevalier G, Brown R. The effects of grounding (earthing) on inflammation, the immune response, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Journal of Inflammation Research. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378297/. Published March 24, 2015.
9. Wrzosek M, Łukaszkiewicz J, Jakubczyk A, et al. Vitamin D and the central nervous system. Pharmacological Reports. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23744412. Published 2013.
10. Tuohimaa P, Keisala T, Minasyan A, Cachat J, Kalueff A. Vitamin D, nervous system and aging. Psychoneuroendocrinology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19660871. Published December 2009.
11. Woodyard C. Exploring the therapeutic effects of yoga and its ability to increase the quality of life. International Journal of Yoga. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3193654/. Published 2011.
12. Cuciureanu MD. Magnesium and stress. Magnesium in the Central Nervous System [Internet]. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507250/.
13. Tarleton EK, Littenberg B, MacLean CD, Kennedy AG, Daley C. Role of magnesium supplementation in the treatment of depression: A randomized clinical trial. PLOS ONE. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0180067. Published June 27, 2017.
14. Dyall SC, Michael-Titus AT. Neurological benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. Neuromolecular Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18543124. Published 2008.
15. Anish EJ. Exercise and its effects on the central nervous system. Current Sports Medicine Reports. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15659274. Published February 2005.
16. Dechent WJ-, Ketteler M. Magnesium basics. Clinical Kidney Journal. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26069819. Published February 2012.
17. Mirza B, Ikram H, Bilgrami S, Haleem DJ, Haleem MA. Neurochemical and behavioral effects of green tea (Camellia sinensis): a model study. Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23625424. Published May 2013.
18. Kuriyama S, Hozawa A, Ohmori K, et al. Green tea consumption and cognitive function: a cross-sectional study from the Tsurugaya Project 1. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16469995. Published February 2006.
19. Umezu T. Evaluation of the effects of plant-derived essential oils on central nervous system function using discrete shuttle-type conditioned avoidance response in mice. Phytotherapy Research. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22086772. Published June 2012.
20. Mooventhan A, Nivethitha L. Evidence-based effects of yoga in neurological disorders. Journal of clinical neuroscience: official journal of the Neurosurgical Society of Australasia. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28599839. Published September 2017.
21. Wang Z-J, Heinbockel T. Essential Oils and Their Constituents Targeting the GABAergic System and Sodium Channels as Treatment of Neurological Diseases. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29724056. Published May 2, 2018.