Imagine your nervous system as a loyal bodyguard, always on high alert, scanning the world for threats and stepping in to protect you before you even realize you’re in danger. This bodyguard doesn’t ask for permission—it just acts, doing whatever it takes to keep you safe. Through the lens of Somatic Experiencing (SE), we can see that our nervous system isn’t working against us; it’s actually our first line of defense, always acting in our best interest. This understanding is key to nervous system healing.
A Path to Nervous System Healing
When life throws challenges our way, our autonomic nervous system (ANS) jumps into action, just like a bodyguard shielding its client. If it perceives danger, it might fight to protect you, run to get you to safety, freeze to avoid detection, or even fawn to maintain peace. These responses aren’t weaknesses; they are intelligent, split-second decisions made with one goal—your survival.
When Patterns Persist
But here’s the thing: just like a bodyguard who remains tense long after the threat is gone, our nervous system sometimes gets stuck in these protective patterns. Unlike wild animals who instinctively shake off stress and move on, we humans tend to hold onto it, leaving us feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected. Somatic Experiencing helps us release these trapped survival responses, allowing our bodyguard to finally stand down. This release is an essential part of nervous system healing.
Shifting Perspectives
Healing begins when we stop fighting against our own protector. Instead of asking, “Why did I freeze?” we can say, “Thank you for keeping me safe.” This shift from frustration to appreciation helps us reconnect with our body’s natural rhythm, fostering resilience and calm.
Your nervous system has always been your hero. When you learn to trust its wisdom and support its healing, you step into a new chapter—one where safety and connection become your new normal. Your bodyguard is doing its job. Let’s help it finally rest and achieve nervous system healing.
Journal Prompts for Deeper Reflection on Nervous System Healing
- If your nervous system were a personal bodyguard, how would you describe its personality? Is it overly cautious, always on edge, or able to relax when the danger is gone?
- Think of a time when your nervous system responded with fight, flight, freeze, or fawn. How can you reframe that response as your “bodyguard” doing its best to protect you?
- What are some ways you can signal to your bodyguard (nervous system) that it’s safe to relax? Are there grounding practices, movements, or breathwork techniques that help you feel at ease?
