Nature & The Nervous System: Check out Seven Springs!

 Nature & The Nervous System: 
why our brains LOVE being outside

 As the weather cools off and those crisp mornings return, our inclination is to spend more time outdoors- why? Because spending time in nature helps us regulate our nervous system balance, primarily the parasympathetic , or "rest & digest" mode of our neurology.

    The parasympathetic nervous system is in charge of rest, recovery, and healing. You must be in this state to get quality sleep, digest food, and process trauma or stress. In our modern world, we live in "fight or flight" mode constantly. This adds a strain on our bodies, pushing us into an unhealthy pattern of high cortisol, high stress, and low vitality.

    Exposure to nature has been associated with alterations in brain activity in the prefrontal cortex, an area of the brain that plays an important role in emotional regulation. One experimental study among female university students in Japan investigated physiological and psychological responses to looking at real plants compared with images of the same plants [40]. Although participants reported feelings of comfort and relaxation after seeing either real plants or images of the same plants, a physiological response was observed only after seeing real plants. Seeing real plants was associated with increased oxy-hemoglobin concentrations in the prefrontal cortex, suggesting that real plants may have physiological benefits for brain activity not replicated by images of plants.

    Life's stressors can take a toll on our normal physiological functions, such as sleep, metabolic health, incidences of depression, birth outcomes, and more. A recent study demonstrated that the exposure to fresh air and green space is scientifically proven to improve our body's resilience to stress-related diseases, promote higher levels of physical activity, and even improve birth outcomes all based on Iower stressors being present.

    Spending time in nature is essential in nervous system regulation, and is a great way to complement consistent chiropractic care. Like all things in life, restoring balance is essential to healing, living well, and feeling at peace in your body. You only get one, it's time to prioritize it this fall!

  

 If you are located in Middle TN and are looking for a weekend getaway this fall, look no further than Seven Springs. These intimate studio-style cabins in Smithville is only 75 minutes from Nashville, and is close to Center Hill lake. With a creek rushing nearby, horses & cows surrounding the cabins, & a star-filled sky every night, this staycation will help you unwind & restore balance in your mind & body. These are perfectly located between the charming towns of Woodbury & McMinnville, and have recreational activities all around! Just listen to those ambient sounds of nature!

    If you're ready to prioritize your health this fall, consider booking a getaway with your spouse to Seven Springs. Use the code MILESTONE for $10 off when you book directly here. Check out their social media at @stayatsevensprings & learn more about the cabins here.