’Tis the season for twinkly lights, cozy sweaters…and mental overload. If you’ve noticed your mood bouncing around like you just drank a triple espresso, your stress creeping in, or your energy dipping by 3 p.m. for no reason, don’t worry, you’re not imagining it. Your nervous system is just reacting to this time of the year.
Reason Why Your Nervous System Gets…Nervous
These shorter days cause brain fog. Your brain is basically solar-powered. When the sun checks out early, your serotonin dips, your melatonin flips, and suddenly you’re sleepy and moody at the same time.
Combining lower melatonin from sensory overload with shopping crowds, relatives, and bright blinking lights everywhere, your nervous system begins to remind you that you are not built for this much stimulation. On top of reaching the overstimulation wall, you’re expected to be joyful, festive, grateful, social, and composed… all while managing life, work, family, and finances. Enough already!
In addition, December casually destroys sleep schedules, eating patterns, and any sense of normalcy. Your body loves routine, so December is the culprit of chaos. Hopefully, some of what you are feeling and can’t explain may make more sense now.
The most important thing is to acknowledge and realize why you are feeling these things to decrease anxiety and avoid bottoming out while your nervous system is trying to keep up.
Common Side Effects of the Season (that nobody warns you about)
- Random mood swings (“Why am I crying during a cookie commercial?”)
- Overthinking everything
- Feeling tired but wired
- Wanting to hibernate like a bear
- Tight shoulders that could double as earrings
- Digestive drama
- The urge to hide in your car for a few minutes of silence
- Thinking you need to “fix yourself” when really you just need a snack and some sunlight
Nourish your body like you actually like it. Your nervous system thrives on:
- Walks in fuzzy socks
- Slow yoga on a heated mat
- Stretching in front of the fireplace
- Shaking out your tension; yes, shake your body out like a slinky
- Protein, protein, protein
- Warm comfort foods
- Hydration. We are always going to mention this one because it affects everything
- Steady meals instead of “accidental fasting”
Take mini breaks from:
- Noise
- Bright lights
- Notifications
- People who are… a lot (you know who we mean)
How to Bring Your Nervous System Out of Overload
Here are a few things that actively switch your body from sympathetic (stress) to parasympathetic (calm):
- Deep breathing (especially long exhales)
- Grounding through nature or sunlight
- Warm baths or showers
- Gentle movement
- Magnesium glycinate
- L-theanine
- Adaptogens like ashwagandha or holy basil
- Restorative sleep
- Mindfulness or journaling
- Reducing caffeine or screens
- Talking to someone supportive
Even small shifts matter. Easier said than done, but you can do it!
An overloaded nervous system isn’t immediately dangerous, but if left unmanaged long enough, it can absolutely impact your physical and mental health. The good news? Your nervous system is incredibly resilient, and you can support it back to health with the right tools, habits, and guidance. At Peoples, we know how to help your nervous system chill out…literally. Here are some reminders to help.
Supplements like a Warm Blanket to Help Your Nervous System Calm, Balance Mood, and Reduce Stress:
- Magnesium Glycinate – a relaxation superstar.
- Omega-3s – mood and brain support during dark months.
- B-Complex/B12 – for energy and stress.
- L-Theanine – melts mental tension without making you sleepy.
- Ashwagandha or Holy Basil – adaptogens for “I’m doing too much” season.
- Probiotics – because your gut and brain are besties.
- Vitamin D3 – basically sunshine in a bottle.
If You’re Feeling Extra “Off” — Get Answers, Not Anxiety
Sometimes your nervous system is reacting to deeper imbalances, such as nutrient deficiencies, hormonal shifts, gut issues, or adrenal fatigue. That’s where wellness testing can help, paired with a consultation, and you’ll get a personalized plan to help you feel like you again.
Peoples offers at home testing:
- Stress & adrenal testing
- Neurotransmitter levels
- Sleep
- Gut health
- Metabolic and macronutrient processing
A Final Reminder for Your Nervous System
You’re human. This season is a lot. And you’re doing better than you realize.