Ice Pack
Stimulating the vagus nerve with cold water or ice can help calm your body, nervous system, mind, and emotions. This activity can reduce your stress levels and anxiety. When you use the cold water or ice to activate your vagus nerve, your mind focuses on the cold and the present moment which reduces the strength of your anxious thoughts. Try this activity wherever you are.
- Get an icepack out of the freezer or put ice cubes in a towel or zip lock bag
- Place the ice on the back of your neck and hold there for as long as you can tolerate
- Focus on the cold
- Take deep cleansing breaths
- If you are able to sit or lie down, close your eyes and relax
- Then go back to mindfully participating in your day
Reference:
Dr. Todd and Kristin Evans are celebrating 22 years of marriage. They are award-winning authors, speakers, and parents of two children with complex needs. Their new book, How to Build a Thriving Marriage as You Care for Children with Disabilities will release in May 2024 by Baker Books. They both earned their MA in Christian Educational Ministries at Wheaton College in Illinois and have served together in full-time ministry in church, camping, and retreat settings. Todd received his PhD from Vanderbilt University’s School of Engineering and currently manages his own business, and Kristin earned her MSW from the University of Tennessee and is a Licensed Master Social Worker experienced in couples, child and family, substance abuse, and crisis counseling.
Disability Parenting