Our everyday life is loud, fast and often overwhelming for our nervous system. If you feel constantly overloaded, stressed or internally unsettled, you are usually not overreacting – you are simply responding physically. Because our nervous system is not designed to be in permanent alarm mode.
What does our nervous system actually do?
It is the central communication network of our body. It consists of the brain, the spinal cord and a dense network of nerve pathways that run throughout the entire body. It controls vital functions such as breathing, heart rate, digestion and sleep – as well as how we respond to stress or danger.
The autonomic nervous system is divided into two opposing parts:
The sympathetic nervous system activates us: heart rate, muscle tone and alertness increase so we can react or flee.
The parasympathetic nervous system brings us into recovery: heart rate and breathing slow down, healing and digestion are supported.
A healthy balance between these states keeps us stable. However, when stress dominates, we often remain stuck in a constantly active sympathetic state. The result: exhaustion, sleep problems, tension or the feeling of not being able to switch off.
What throws the nervous system out of balance?
Our nervous system thrives on safety, rhythms and breaks. What it does not cope well with:
-
Constant overstimulation (noise, screen time, multitasking)
-
Lack of recovery phases
-
Emotional overload (e.g. conflict, loneliness, inner restlessness)
-
Lack of sleep and physical exhaustion
How does acupressure help calm the nervous system?
Acupressure is a method from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in which certain points on the body’s surface are stimulated with gentle pressure. Modern studies show that this stimulation not only relaxes muscles, but also directly affects the nervous system.
This is what happens in the body when using an acupressure mat:
-
Nerve endings in the skin are stimulated and send signals to the brain
-
The brain releases calming neurotransmitters such as endorphins and oxytocin
-
The parasympathetic nervous system is activated – the body shifts from doing to being
-
Heart rate and breathing slow down, muscle tension decreases
Many people report feeling a sense of deep calm, heaviness or pleasant tiredness after 10–20 minutes on the acupressure mat. This is a clear sign of a regulated nervous system.
Conclusion: Your nervous system needs your care
You do not have to control your nervous system – but you can help it feel safe. Acupressure is a simple, natural way to release tension and reconnect with your body. It doesn’t take much: just a few minutes and the decision to allow yourself this moment of calm.
Acupressure is not a miracle cure. But it is a gentle, deeply effective tool for more balance, self-regulation and inner peace.
Sources:
-
Porges, Stephen W. (2011): The Polyvagal Theory. Norton.
-
McCorry, Laurie K. (2007): Physiology of the Autonomic Nervous System. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education.
-
Chen et al. (2017): Effects of Acupressure on Sleep Quality: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine.
-
Mittelman, M. (2021): The neurophysiology of acupressure and its impact on emotional regulation. Holistic Nursing Practice.