"Kinesthetic reeducation of developing ease in the body"
-- line taken from Liberated Body podcast, episode 21
The PNS (parasympathetic nervous system) conserves energy in your body and is responsible for ongoing, steady-state activity. It produces a feeling of relaxation, often with a sense of contentment-- this is why it is sometimes called the "rest and digest" system, in contrast to the "fight-or-flight" SNS (sympathetic nervous system). These two wings of the ANS (autonomic nervous system) are connected like a seesaw: when one goes up, the other one goes down.
The cooling, steadying influence of the PNS helps you think clearly and avoid hot-headed actions that would harm you or others. The PNS also quiets the mind and fosters tranquility, which supports contemplative insight.
-- Buddha's Brain, p. 59
The idea is to keep the ANS in balance…..
- Mainly parasympathetic arousal for a baseline of ease and peacefulness
- Mild SNS activation for enthusiasm, vitality, and wholesome passions
- Occasional SNS spikes to deal with demanding situations from a great opportunity at work to a late-night call from a teenager who needs a ride home from a party gone bad
This is your best-odds prescription for a long, productive, happy life. Of course, it takes practice.
-- Buddha's Brain, p. 60
How do we calm the SNS during the day?
- pause and take deep breaths
- move more slowly, literally
- sit down for meals and eat them at regular times
- do one thing at a time
- sit and drink tea
- limit screen time and email checking
- take a bath
- receive or give massage
- spend time outside
- go to bed when you are tired, don't wait for a "second wind"
