Nervous System Regulation for Moms: Overstimulation, Stress, and Finding Calm

What does “nervous system regulation” even mean when you’re a mom pulled in a million directions? We unpack the buzzword, talk about overstimulation, stress, and what finding calm looks like in the middle of messy, real-life motherhood. Hint: Is it really regulating or is it us policing ourselves? Our discussion begins with a candid reflection on exhaustion and coping methods, transitioning into the pressures society places on mothers in relationship to their ability to “regulate”. We, then, confront the disparity between curated social media portrayals of parenting and the often chaotic reality, emphasizing the need for support and understanding (and for unfollowing unhelpful accounts).Delving into practical strategies for managing overstimulation, we offer insights on creating a more manageable environment and grounding exercises. We identify that these are simply tools to bring us back into a place where we can be present while knowing that this may not be possible for us at times. We also address the stigma surrounding seeking help, highlighting the necessity of compassion and self-care. Concluding with actionable tips, we encourage listeners to integrate personal coping mechanisms into their routines in order to see what works for them, reminding them that “regulation” isn’t the end goal, utilizing tools and seeking centeredness/groundedness while embracing life's chaos is a continuous journey.We hope our stories and ideas resonate with you and your own struggles with dysregulation, sensory overload, and the “shoulds” around the topic of the nervous system. Here are some resources you might find useful!Ambient music - environmental shift to ground yourself during times of sensory overloadNeed a little more or different support with the auditory overload of motherhood?? Here is an option for noise reducing ear buds Loops - NOT an affiliate Pregnancy Postpartum Support International - Perinatal mental health resources including support groups, registry of providers, and so much more (your state may have their own resources too! MN is Pregnancy Postpartum Support MN)Support the showKirsten's Physical Therapy websiteThe Nuture CollectiveMama You Belong InstagramKirsten's Instagram Molly's InstagramMolly’s music Sister Veery on bandcampMolly’s music website