Let’s be real: My version 2024 could’ve been a Netflix drama — high-stakes, emotional, and slightly exhausting.
Within six months, I:
- Got married
- Bought my first house (a fixer-upper at that)
- Started a new job
Planning a wedding alone is enough to wreck your nervous system, but combining all three? Yeah… I was done.
And I mean done.
I was so stressed that I, a 28-year-old, ended up with shingles, was missing periods, and just completely running on empty. My body was in full-blown fight-or-flight mode for months — and it finally caught up to me.
I knew I needed a reset — and fast. Here’s what actually helped me (and might help you, too — or at least give you ideas).
1. Notice the Pattern
If you’re reading this, you probably know the feeling of being stressed or anxious. The first step is recognizing your own signals. What’s “normal” for you, and what’s a sign that your body is in fight-or-flight mode? Once you spot the pattern, you can start to interrupt it before it spirals.
2. Calm the Mind & Stop the Cycle
Now that you noticed the pattern, it’s time to break it. When your mind starts ruminating and your body starts shaking… break. the. cycle. No one can do it but you.
Calm your mind by finding what works for you:
- Meditation? Yes.
- Reading or journaling
- A hot bath with zero phone distractions (I love bringing my Kindle in the tub)
The goal isn’t perfection — it’s simply giving your brain a break from constant overthinking.
3. Vitamins & Nutritional Support
Being in a constant state of fight-or-flight can wreak havoc on your body, immune system, and hormonal balance — and I felt that firsthand. My immune system was clearly struggling, so I focused on supporting my body from the inside out.
I took supplements to help support my recovery. Here’s what I included and why (remember: I’m not a doctor, so consult your healthcare professional before adding anything new to your routine).
- Multivitamin (or Prenatal if you are trying for pregnancy like me) – Provides essential vitamins and minerals (like folate, iron, and B vitamins) to support overall health, energy, and nutrient balance.
- Vitamin D – Seasonal depression? Maybe consider a Vitamin D supplement. This supports bone health, mood regulation, immune system, and overall hormone balance. About 40% of U.S. adults are low on Vitamin D (Healthline, 2023).
- Fish oil – Reduces inflammation, supports brain function, heart health, and joint mobility. Omega-3s are essential fats most people don’t get enough of from diet alone. Pro Tip- Keep this in the fridge- it helps with any unwanted body odors.
- CoQ10 – Helps boost natural energy, protect cells from oxidative stress, and support overall vitality.
- Probiotic – Supports gut health, digestion, and immune function. A healthy gut can improve digestion, nutrient absorption, and even mood regulation. I love this brand, they have other options formulated for men, mood, prenatal, etc.
- L-Lysine – Supports immune health, collagen production, tissue repair, and calcium absorption. I specifically focused on this for extra immune support when my body was clearly run down.
- Zinc – Supports immune function, wound healing, skin health, and hormone regulation. Another key player I added to help strengthen my immune system during that time.
- Magnesium (at night) – Supports muscle relaxation, stress management, better sleep, and nervous system function.
- Iron (as needed after your period) – Supports healthy red blood cells, energy, and reduces fatigue. Especially useful for women who experience blood loss; prevents tiredness and low energy. Pair with some Vitamin C (like orange juice) for best absorption.
It’s also really important to choose high-quality, clean supplements. Not all vitamins are created equal, and many contain unnecessary fillers and additives that don’t actually benefit your body. I’ve linked the brands I personally use and trust, but in general, try to avoid ingredients like magnesium stearate, titanium dioxide, artificial dyes (like Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1), hydrogenated oils, talc, and excessive binders or fillers. The goal is to support your body — not overload it with extra junk.
4. Adrenal Mocktails
Yes, I drank my way to calm… kind of. These aren’t alcoholic cocktails — they’re nutrient-packed, hormone-supportive drinks that help reduce stress and support adrenal health.
Check out my adrenal mocktail recipe here!
5. Find Hobbies That Actually Relax You
For me, sewing and baking are my mental detox. They keep my hands busy and my mind focused on something creative instead of spiraling into “what if” mode.
For you, it might be:
- Painting
- Knitting
- Walking
- Reorganizing your pantry
Whatever truly feels like rest — and yes, it can be fun and productive at the same time.
6. Move Your Body (Even If You’re Exhausted)
Bedtime has always been when my brain likes to overthink the most. I found that moving my body to the point of exhaustion helped me finally fall asleep.
I aim for 5 workouts a week — sweat, stretch, strength training… whatever makes your body feel alive and drained in a good way.
7. Stay Busy
Life will pass you by if you don’t choose to live it. Sure, it’s a cliché — but clichés exist for a reason.
Fill your life with:
- Hobbies
- Pets
- People
- Things you genuinely enjoy
Exhaust yourself in the good ways — your mind will slow down while your body works.
8. Protect. Your. Peace. REALISTICALLY
Stop choosing activities that drain your energy unnecessarily. But let’s be honest: we all have to do things we don’t want to do. Family obligations, work events, social commitments…
Prepare yourself, accept that it’ll suck temporarily, and reward yourself afterward. Sweet treat, bath, adrenal mocktail — whatever helps you recharge.
The Takeaway
Resetting your nervous system isn’t about one magic pill or perfect routine. It’s about giving your body and mind what they need:
- Nutrition that supports adrenal health
- Calm moments to rest your mind
- Staying physically active to help quiet your mind
- Being realistic about what you can expect from your peace
My tip: Start small. Pick one thing from the list above and commit for a week. Then add the next. Tiny wins compound into a full nervous system reset over time.
After months of intentional practice, my fight-or-flight brain finally learned to take a breath — and honestly, I never thought I’d enjoy moving my body or quieting my mind so much.
