Motherhood is a beautiful journey and it can also be quite confusing and overwhelming. Many moms experience an increase in their stress and anxiety, particularly post-partum, which can take a toll on one’s central nervous system (CNS).
The Central Nervous System is a pretty big “buzz” topic in the mental health world these days. So, let’s talk about what the Central Nervous System is.
The CNS is a crucial part of the nervous system, responsible for processing and coordinating sensory information and controlling bodily functions. The two main components are the brain and spinal cord. The functions of the central nervous system are: information processing (interpreting sensory data from the environment and making decisions based on that information), control of movement (sending signals to muscles for voluntary/involuntary movements), regulation of bodily functions (heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion) and emotional and cognitive functions (memory, learning and emotional responses).
When our CNS is overwhelmed by stress, anxiety or trauma it can become dysregulated and lead to increased anxiety or panic, difficulty concentrating, sleep issues and chronic fatigue. Sound familiar, moms??
When you hear your baby burst out crying during the night or two siblings are arguing over who gets to sit in the front seat- scenarios us moms experience multiple times a day- imagine the overload this can have on your central nervous system. And as moms we never prioritize ourselves because we either believe we don’t have the time or feel guilty for it.
These are common themes that I hear in my work with parents and moms in my practice. It can take a lot of time processing these thoughts and feelings and even after that’s done, we typically go right back to our old patterns. LENS is an intervention that can break this cycle.
How LENS neurofeedback regulates your CNS and what it looks like
LENS neurofeedback is an EEG based neurofeedback system which interrupts the maladaptive patterns or “neural gridlocks” that the brain has created in response to stressors and traumatic experiences. In doing so, the brain is able to fix itself, bringing back optimal functioning and promoting self-regulation.
How it works:
- Gentle neurofeedback- LENS utilizes low energy signals to help the brain re-organize with zero effort on the client’s part.
- Self-regulation- the feedback assists the brain in recognizing and reducing patterns of dysregulation, allowing the entire brain to become balanced and calm.
- Non-intrusive- unlike traditional neurofeedback- LENS is non-invasive and the sessions are 20-30 minutes. This makes it less challenging and more accessible.
The benefits I see in my clients engaging in LENS include:
- Greater ability to regulate their emotions
- Increased ability to prioritize and staying on task
- Reduced reactivity and/or sensitivity
- Improved sleep
- Less brain fog
- Decrease in somatic complaints
And many more!
This is something you can do for yourself!
LENS is an up and coming, cutting-edge intervention that I’ve heard people say is “too good to be true”. For moms with busy schedules and an overwhelming to-do list, LENS is a fabulous intervention because it is quick, effective and promotes self-regulation and emotional awareness, which is not only important for ourselves but also our kids! If you’re struggling with stress, anxiety or emotional dysregulation, consider exploring LENS, a supportive tool to enhance your mental and physical well-being.
