As women, we have been conditioned to be hyper productive, high achieving, and go-getters from the very start. Unfortunately, this has led many women down the path of overfunctioning that has led them to burnout, illness, and malnourishment. How many times did you cancel something from being too tired? I can relate.
Your Boundary Systems Defined
Did you know that your physical body has a boundary system that is essential in maintaining optimal health? Your body has a few and I am going to define them for you.
- The autonomic nervous system is constantly scanning the room to get a gage on what is safe and when to “sound the alarm.” When our autonomic nervous system is out of balance, we can be more prone to anxiety and stress.
- The immune system is constantly assessing “what is me” and what is not. When the immune system is out of balance, we get sick often and can even develop autoimmune disease.
- The enteric nervous system is determining what is nourishing versus what is causing inflammation. This system controls digestion and plays a role in our immune response. When this system is out of balance, it can lead to gut disorders and mood imbalances.
What does overfunctioning look like for you?
It can present itself in many different ways but here are some common signs that you are overfunctioning and need to strengthen your boundary systems:
- A packed schedule
- Chronic busyness
- Short sleep (less than 8 hours)
- Canceling plans with friends
- A long to-do list that feel unmanageable
- Getting sick all of the time
- Feeling tired and burned out
- Saying yes when you really want to say no
- Overgiving and neglecting your needs
These are just some of the common signs that I have seen in my clients when it comes to overfunctioning. Did any of them resonate with you?
If you are wondering how to build better boundary systems, keep reading!
Here are some of the steps we would take together to build a better relationship to your boundary systems:
- Regulate your autonomic nervous system– this is why thinking positive and visualizations do not always work on their own. You must get to a state of calm and out of overdrive to start the healing process.
- Take personalized steps to build strength for your immune system– We would create a routine that works for you. This will give you a strong foundation for healing.
- Develop awareness in your enteric nervous system– Together, we would work on your “gut check” skills and find solutions for support and guidance.
What next?
As a practitioner who helps clients set healthy boundaries and find healing daily, I know the challenges that you are facing and I know how much work it takes to rewrite your story. I am here to tell you that you can rewrite your story and I can help you build a toolbox to do so. If you are wanting to take the next step, or are curious to learn more about how I can help you heal and reach your goals, book a clarity call with me.
As always, thank you for saving room for me in your inbox and I look forward to connecting with you further. If you don’t already, follow me on Instagram where I share posts about all things psychology, self-care, and neuroscience.
