Too much wellness?
Nervous System Regulation: Are We Doing Too Much?
Lately, it seems like nervous system regulation is everywhere. Instagram reels, TikToks, podcasts, and your friend who just got really into cold plunges are all telling us what we should be doing to calm down, find balance, and “heal our nervous system.”
Meditate daily. Take deep, intentional box breaths. Do yoga (but not too intense), stretch before bed, and don’t forget your cold plunge in the morning and your hot bath at night.
Oh, and make sure you're eating enough protein… but not too much. Cut back on caffeine, but enjoy your matcha! Limit sugar, but don’t restrict yourself. Sleep at least 8 hours, but wake up early and get sunlight within 10 minutes.
Are you exhausted yet?
Yeah. Me too.
The Wellness Overwhelm Is Real
We live in a time where mental health awareness is finally getting the attention it deserves — which is a wonderfulthing. More people are learning about the nervous system, trauma responses, and how our bodies hold onto stress. We're discovering tools that help us feel more grounded, calm, and connected.
But with that awareness has come a tidal wave of information — and advice. Lots of it. And while most of these tools are based in solid science and genuinely helpful, trying to do them all can start to feel like a full-time job. And ironically? That stress can start to dysregulate our nervous systems even more.
You Don’t Need to Do Everything
The point of nervous system regulation isn’t to add more pressure to your already-full plate. It’s not another to-do list to perfect. It's not a competition to see who can be the chillest, most glowy, least-caffeinated version of themselves.
Regulation should feel supportive — not stressful. And what regulates one person may not work for someone else. Focus on what works for you…
Instead of trying to do all the things, ask yourself:
What actually feels good to my body right now?
What’s realistic for this season of my life?
What’s one small thing I can practice consistently?
Maybe it’s taking a few slow breaths before you get out of bed. Maybe it’s stretching for five minutes at the end of your day. Maybe it’s allowing yourself to enjoy your morning coffee without guilt. Maybe it’s crying in the shower — and then texting a friend.
All of that is nervous system regulation.
Gentle Is Powerful
The truth is, your body already knows how to regulate — it just needs the right conditions to do so. And often, those conditions are simple:
Slowing down
Feeling safe
Being in connection with others
Moving your body in ways that feel good
Resting when you need to
Nourishing yourself — emotionally and physically
So yes, cold plunges and yoga and perfect sleep hygiene have their place. But so does laughing with a friend, reading a book that makes you feel less alone, or simply putting your hand on your heart and reminding yourself, “I’m doing the best I can.”
And that? That’s enough.
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Email: katy@katydeangeliscounseling.com
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