When the parasympathetic nervous system (PSNS) is activated, it slows our heart and breathing rates, lowers blood pressure and promotes digestion. Our body enters a state of relaxation, and this relaxation breeds recovery.

The autonomic nervous system comprises two parts- the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system activates the fight or flight response during a threat or perceived danger, and the parasympathetic nervous system restores the body to a state of calm.

In general, sympathetic stimulation causes inhibition of gastrointestinal secretion and motor activity, and contraction of gastrointestinal sphincters and blood vessels. Conversely, parasympathetic stimuli typically stimulate these digestive activities.

Activating the Parasympathetic Nervous System to Decrease Anxiety

1. Spend time in nature.
2. Get a massage.
3. Practice meditation.
4. Deep abdominal breathing from the diaphragm.
5. Repetitive prayer.
6. Focus on a word that is soothing such as calm or peace.
7. Play with animals or children.
8. Practice yoga, chi kung, or tai chi.

A person can use exercise to improve the functioning of the nerves that serve the muscles and other peripheral parts of the body. Increasing the activity in the peripheral nervous system strengthens the nerves, in the same way that exercise strengthens the muscles.

9 herbs for anxiety

• Ashwagandha.
• Chamomile.
• Valerian.
• Lavender.
• Galphimia glauca.
• Passionflower.
• Kava kava.
• CBD.

B vitamins are useful in treating neuropathy since they support healthy nervous system function. Peripheral neuropathy is sometimes caused by a vitamin B deficiency. Supplementation should include vitamin B-1 (thiamine and benfotiamine), B-6, and B-12. You may choose to take these separately instead of as a B complex.

In the nervous system, magnesium is important for optimal nerve transmission and neuromuscular coordination, as well as serving to protect against excitotoxicity (excessive excitation leading to cell death) [1,2].