Your Nervous System is Talking

Ever feel like you're either on edge, totally checked out, or finally okay — and you're not sure why? That might just be your nervous system doing what it was designed to do: protect you.

Polyvagal Theory helps explain how our bodies respond to stress and connection. Think of it as a roadmap for your inner world — and understanding it can be a powerful step toward feeling more grounded and in control.

Here are three ways your nervous system might be speaking to you — and how you can respond with care:

• You're restless, anxious, or snappy. Your body might be in fight-or-flight mode (sympathetic activation). It’s not just “stress” — it’s your system trying to protect you from a perceived threat.

  → Try: Movement. A brisk walk, shaking out your arms, or even humming can help shift the energy.

  
  

  

  
  

• You feel flat, numb, or like you just want to disappear. This could be freeze or shutdown mode (dorsal vagal state). It’s your nervous system saying “this is too much.”

  → Try: Gentle things. Light, warmth, a soft touch, music you love — anything that signals “I’m safe now.”

  
  

• You're calm, connected, and present. This is your ventral vagal state — the zone where you feel grounded and open to the world.

  → Try: Notice this state when it's happening. Savor it. The more familiar it becomes, the more your system knows how to return here.

  
  

  

  
  

There’s nothing wrong with you — your nervous system is doing its job. The good news? You can learn to work with it instead of feeling like you're always reacting to it.

With the right tools — and sometimes, the right guide — you can gently teach your body that it's safe to heal, grow, and connect again.

Work with me if you're curious about how somatic coaching can support your journey.