How To Reset Your Nervous System (For Free) - A Really Good Cry Recap

Podcast: A Really Good Cry

Published: 2026-01-20

Duration: 26 min

Summary

Kiah emphasizes the power of morning routines to regulate the nervous system using free, accessible methods like breath work, nature exposure, and grounding practices.

What Happened

Kiah shares her profound belief in the transformative power of breath work and how it has personally changed her life, highlighting it as an underrated tool for shifting emotional and physical states. She explains the significance of the nervous system's three states: sympathetic (fight or flight), dorsal vagel (freeze), and ventral vagel (safe and connected), underscoring the importance of moving back into a regulated state for a healthier day.

Kiah discusses her morning routine, which includes nine free practices to soothe the nervous system, such as consuming warm water, standing on a marma mat, and engaging in breath work. Each practice is rooted in ancient wisdom and is designed to signal safety and calmness to the nervous system, helping to reset and regulate it effectively.

She introduces the concept of 'dosha' from Ayurveda, explaining how understanding one's mind-body type can provide insight into why stress manifests differently in individuals and why specific calming tools work better for some people. This understanding aids in choosing the most effective regulation practices tailored to individual needs.

The episode explores the benefits of practices like humming, which increases nitric oxide and calms the nervous system, and the importance of avoiding intense workouts on an empty stomach to prevent hormone disruption. Kiah shares personal experiences and scientific insights to support these practices, emphasizing their accessibility and effectiveness.

The importance of screen-free mornings is highlighted, as Kiah explains how silence and absence of stimulation help the nervous system regulate and prepare for the day. She stresses that even brief moments of quiet can significantly impact one's mental and physical state.

Kiah passionately advocates for reconnecting with nature, discussing how exposure to morning light, grounding, and looking out at horizons can dramatically improve mood, sleep, and overall well-being. She describes how these natural elements have a biological impact on the body, promoting a sense of calm and balance.

Lastly, she talks about the comforting effects of hot showers and using eucalyptus, describing their role in soothing the nervous system. These simple actions, combined with her other morning practices, help create a nurturing environment for the mind and body to thrive.

Key Insights