Life can be a lot. Between all of our varying responsibilities, the health of your nervous system is probably not high on your list. It might not even be on your radar yet. But your nervous system controls just about everything in your entire body, from how you move to how you think and even how you respond to a stressful situation. And as believers, caring for our bodies is a way we honor God (1 Corinthians 6:19–20). So, let’s talk about how to take care of your nervous system, with a whole lot of grace and practical steps you can start today.
What Is Your Nervous System, Anyway?
Your nervous system is a complex network of nerves made up of two main parts: the central nervous system (that’s your brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system (which branches out to the rest of the body).
It includes things like:
- Sensory neurons that respond to external stimuli
- Motor neurons that control body movements
- The autonomic nervous system, which manages things you don’t even think about—like heart rate, blood flow, and digestion
- The somatic nervous system, which handles voluntary movements
Each part of your nervous system plays a critical role in your physical health, cognitive abilities, and overall health. And no, I didn’t know all these specific details, I definitely researched to share this with you.
Why Nervous System Health Matters (and How It Glorifies God)
Your nervous system is the control center of your body. It sends electrical signals to different parts of the body, allowing you to function, feel, think, and respond. So when it’s not in good shape, things can go haywire: chronic pain, memory loss, high blood pressure, mental health conditions, and even neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, or peripheral neuropathy.
So, as you can imagine, keeping your nervous system health in check not only protects your body, it protects your peace, your relationships, and your ability to serve with strength.
How to Take Care of Your Nervous System (Practical + Biblical)
Here are some of the best ways to support the health of your nervous system in your daily routine, and honor God while you’re at it:
1. Fuel Your Body with a Healthy Diet
A well-balanced diet is a very effective way to feed your nerve cells and support proper bodily functions.
Include:
- Healthy fats like avocado, chia seeds, and nuts to help your myelin sheath (the coating that protects your nerves)
- B vitamins (especially vitamin B12) for brain health and cognitive function
- Vitamin C for immune support
- Fatty acids for brain and nerve damage prevention
- Green tea and herbal teas for calming the parasympathetic nervous system
Tip: Try to incorporate healthy fats and essential nutrients at every meal, and avoid toxic chemicals or harmful substances like processed foods and sugar.
2. Get Regular Physical Activity
If you follow me on social media, read my blog, or if you’ve done any personal training or nutrition coaching with me, you already know I’ve been shouting this for years. Exercise is not just for weight loss/maintenance.
Regular exercise supports blood circulation, boosts your immune system, and reduces chronic stress. All of these things help keep your nervous system in good shape. It also improves cognitive abilities and lowers your risk for chronic conditions.
And don’t worry, you don’t need to become a fitness guru. Even walking 30 minutes a day or stretching can be part of your routine! Add some “Jesus music” as we call in at my house, also known as worship music, and it will do even more for your nervous system because it’s calming and reenforces a positive outlook.
3. Prioritize Sleep
Getting enough sleep, we’re talking 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night, is one of the most effective strategies to restore and reset your nervous system.
Sleep allows your brain, spinal cord, and body processes to recharge. Lack of rest can lead to sudden changes in mood, severe headaches, and memory loss.
4. Practice Deep Breathing + Mindfulness
In the high stress world we live in, for a lot of us, the first step to healing our bodies is calming our spirits. Deep breathing exercises and mindfulness practices help calm your autonomic nervous system, especially the parasympathetic nervous system, which regulates stress levels and heart rate.
Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still and know that I am God.” That stillness can be part of your healing. Create a mindful prayer practice that helps your nervous system relax.
5. Avoid Harmful Substances
Steer clear of toxic chemicals (even in cleaning products), caffeine overload, alcohol, and smoking, all of which negatively affect your nervous system health. Also, pay attention to signs of issues like chronic stress, chronic pain, or any medical condition like peripheral neuropathy or frequent headaches.
Honoring God Through Health
Caring for the health of your nervous system is about more than staying energized, it’s about stewarding the temple God gave you. Your body is a gift. And when you nourish it with essential nutrients, give it rest, move it regularly, and protect it from stressful situations, you’re walking in wisdom.
Remember, I’m not a doctor. Use of this information is not a replacement for medical advice. Always speak with a healthcare provider or specialist if you suspect a medical condition related to your nervous system.
