The enteric nervous system (ENS), often called the "second brain," is a complex network of neurons embedded in your digestive tract. It operates both independently and in close communication with your brain, regulating digestion, supporting gut health, and even influencing mood through the gut-brain axis. From controlling gut motility with the Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) to partnering with your microbiome to produce mood-boosting neurotransmitters, the ENS is vital for overall health. Explore how this intricate system impacts your digestion, immunity, and mental well-being—and discover actionable tips to support your gut-brain connection.

Explore the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS)—the "rest and digest" counterpart to the fight-or-flight response. Learn how the vagus nerve, neurotransmitters like acetylcholine, and supportive players like nitric oxide work together to calm your body, improve digestion, and support immune function. Plus, discover actionable tips like diaphragmatic breathing, mindfulness, and craniosacral therapy to activate your PNS and bring balance to your nervous system. Dive in and give your body the relaxation it deserves!

Ever feel your heart race at the sound of a sudden noise or tense up when you’re running late? That’s your sympathetic nervous system kicking into gear—your body’s own ‘fight or flight’ mode. In this Tour of the Body post, we’ll dive into the our sympathetic system, exploring how it works, what chemicals like norepinephrine, epinephrine, and cortisol do to keep you alert, and the real impact of being ‘on’ too often. Plus, we’ll share actionable tips for shifting back into balance so you can manage stress and feel more at ease in your body.

Our autonomic nervous system (ANS) works tirelessly behind the scenes, managing essential functions like heart rate, digestion, and stress response—even while we sleep. In this post, we dive into the ANS and its three branches: the sympathetic (“fight or flight”), parasympathetic (“rest and digest”), and enteric (our “second brain” in the gut) systems. Discover how these systems shape your daily experience and set the foundation for balanced health. Join me in noticing how your body responds throughout the day as we prepare to explore each system in depth over the coming weeks.