This Moment. The Only Moment.
- Chantill Lopez
- Aug 15
- 2 min read
Activating regulation by activating the body.
I have been surprised and not at all surprised by the impact my body has on my state of being, my mental state, and my overall sense of steadiness.
Of course we know that our physical and mental health are inextricable, but what I'm talking about is how when I make a shape in my body, my brain immediately responds to reflect that shape.
Many fields of science have produced research and studies that support the connection between the shape our body makes and our mental wellness. (See below for a few articles).
But here's the really cool thing:
When we smile or laugh or sing or even talk with kindness we are essentially toning our vagus nerve. Your vagus nerve, the 10th cranial nerve, works alongside three other nerves that control facial expression and prosody (voice): facial nerve (CN VII), glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX), and spinal accessory nerve (CN XI).
The vagus nerve influences the muscles around the eyes and the mouth so that when you are experiencing stress or dysregulation (consciously or unconsciously) your face is less able to make a smile or any kind of expression that would outwardly indicate openness or joy. And likewise, when you make the shape of a smile on your face, your embodied brain reads that as a signal of safety and your state can start to shift.
The practice I've shared here is one of my absolutely most beloved. I've been using it for more than two decades, but I didn't always understand WHY it was so powerful.
"Smile and release." That's one of the key phrases at the end of the practice and I'll tell you even though it can feel strange and forced, if you relax and try it, you'll find that it can create profound changes in your state.
The entire practice is a beautiful homage to your nervous system. Each step is embodied and therefore activates your nervous system in a simple and accessible way.
The practice ends with "This moment. The only moment" (or "the perfect moment"). Through the different layers you'll find yourself gradually settling in. When you're finally asked to smile, your body will be ready.
It might take a litle time, but I hope you'll give it a try.
As always, PLEASE RESPOND with any questions, insights, or ah ha’s you might have about this practice. I’m here for you.
In service,
Chantill
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