The Autonomic Nervous System and the Mind:
What Influences and Strengthens Them
A balanced mind and a strong nervous system promote well-being and help us cope with everyday life and its challenges.However, the modern world increasingly challenges this balance, which can lead to chronic stress and even mental health issues. If these conditions persist over time, psychosomatic symptoms develop that significantly impair quality of life.
What’s more: Chronic stressdepletes vital nutrients!This is partly because, when cortisol levels remain consistently high, vital nutrients are constantly released into the bloodstream, only to be broken down by the body—sometimes before they’ve even been used. On the other hand, the metabolism runs continuously at full speed and also consumes vital nutrients. Furthermore, oxidative stress in the cells—caused by mental and physical stress—must be counteracted with essential nutrients. To avoid developing a micronutrient deficiency, you can replenish the depleted essential nutrients with high-quality dietary supplements.
Structure of the Nervous System and Its Functions
Central Nervous System and Peripheral Nervous System
The central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS) work closely together:While the CNS consists of the brain and spinal cord, the PNS lies outside the brain and spinal cord and includes all other nerve fibers that run through the body. It supplies the CNS with information from the body. These two nervous systems influence both bodily processes that we cannot consciously control and those that we can control at will.
Autonomic Nervous System
Theautonomicnervous system is part of the central and peripheral nervous systems. It is alsocalled the vegetative nervous system andis responsible for all processes that we cannot consciously and directly control. It maintainsinternal balance(homeostasis) by regulating vital functions such as breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, metabolism, and so on. In addition, the autonomic nervous system transmits information from the body to the brain—for example, when the bladder is full.
The autonomic nervous system consists of two opposing systems—thesympatheticand theparasympathetic. The sympathetic nervous system has a stimulating effect and is activated during physical activity. The parasympathetic nervous system promotes physical rest and recovery and has a calming effect.
Also part of the autonomic nervous system is theenteric nervous system, which is also called the visceral nervous system because it is located throughout the gastrointestinal tract and controls it.
Somatic Nervous System
The somatic nervous system is also part of the central and peripheral nervous systems. It is also called the voluntary nervous system and controls all conscious processes, perceptions, and voluntary movements.
The Mind and the Autonomic Nervous System—How Are They Connected?
Feelings and emotions have a direct impact on the autonomic nervous system. For example, when you’re anxious or startled, your heart beats faster and your blood pressure rises. Chronic stress, anger, worry, or mental tension can trigger similar physical symptoms and throw the autonomic nervous system out of balance. As a result, symptoms such as nervousness, cramps, cardiovascular problems, or gastrointestinal issues become apparent, even though they have no physical cause. This condition is referred to as autonomic dystonia. It is a collective term for symptoms that can be triggered by a psychological imbalance or an imbalance in the autonomic nervous system.
The vagus nerve also plays a major role. It is part of the parasympathetic nervous system. It controls bodily functions that help the body relax and has a balancing effect on our well-being. The vagus nerve runs from the brain down through the neck to the abdomen. Along the way, it passes many organs that can exhibit symptoms of autonomic dystonia when the balance is off. During times of stress and tension, the vagus nerve can be stimulated to help us relax again.
Inner balance, relaxation, and calm—these can be achieved by calming the autonomic nervous system and stimulating the vagus nerve. Here are a few suggestions you can incorporate into your daily routine:
Relaxation Rituals
Rituals provide a sense of security and structure to your daily routine and can calm the nervous system. Whether it’s a cup of tea on the balcony or a relaxing soak in the tub, regular, enjoyable moments bring your body and mind back to the here and now and strengthen your nerves. Proper breathing also plays a major role: In moments of stress or anxiety, it can help to take several deep breaths through your nose, hold your breath for two to four seconds, and exhale through your mouth.
Sports and Exercise
Jogging, jumping on a trampoline, or going for a walk—exercise reduces stress and clears your head. It’s best to make sure the exercise is moderate and doesn’t exceed 30 to 50 minutes, so that the stress hormone cortisol isn’t released.
Nutrition
Nutritious meals, including vegetables, complex carbohydrates (such as whole grains), and a good source of protein, provide the stressed body with essential nutrients. And: Eating with others is enjoyable, but please don’t lose focus on your own meal. Because when you eat calmly and chew thoroughly (up to 30 times), you make the most of your meal to recharge your energy.
Nutrients for the Nerves and Mind
An adequate supply of micronutrients is crucial for supporting the body during prolonged stress. The following nutrients play a key role in the health of the mind, nervous system, and brain:
- For mental health:B vitaminssuch as B1, B3, B6, B12, biotin, and folate help stabilize emotional balance. Vitamin C andmagnesiumalso play a supportive role;the body requires more of these nutrients during times of stress,and they promote relaxation.
- For the nervous system:B vitamins(B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, and biotin) strengthen the nerves and help build resilience to stress. Potassium and magnesium also support signal transmission and promote regeneration.
- For the brain:Omega-3 fatty acids,especially DHA (250 mg or more per day), are essential for brain function. Zinc, iron, and iodine contribute to cognitive performance and concentration.
Tip:Pro Biom Anti-Stresscontains biotin, which supports the healthy functioning of the nervous system and mental well-being. It is supplemented with selected bacterial cultures and a high-quality saffron extract—developed by our scientific team.
The functioning of the nervous system and the mind can be supported by certain micronutrients such as biotin and magnesium. OurAnti-Stress Packagecombines additional premium-quality ingredients and includes the following products:
- Pro Biom Anti-Stress– with biotin to support mental and nervous system function. Also contains: selected bacterial cultures (CEREBIOME® and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG) and a high-quality microencapsulated saffron extract (Safr’Inside™).
- Pro Somnia Relax– with magnesium to support healthy nervous system, mental, and muscle function, as well as to reduce tiredness and fatigue. It also features a unique combination of Lactium® and a patented asparagus extract.
- Pro Magnesium– providesadditional magnesium pidolate and magnesium L-lactate. Magnesium supports energy metabolism.
Tip:For added support, we recommend theAnti-Stress Package Plus—which includesPro Omnineuro, containingtaurine, L-carnosine, eight additional plant extracts (e.g., from ashwagandha root, blueberries, pomegranate, broccoli, and decaffeinated green tea), as well asvitamins B6, B12, and folate.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The autonomic nervous system can be calmed through small, soothing rituals such as consciously savoring a cup of tea or taking mindfulness breaks. Breathing exercises, moderate exercise, and targeted relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation also stimulate the vagus nerve and promote a relaxed state. In addition, our Pro Somnia Relax naturally promotes greater serenity and inner peace and effectively lowers cortisol levels.
Both the B vitamins—as found in our Pro Vitamin B Komplex —and vitamin C—found in our Pro Vitamin C Ultra— are particularly important for a healthy autonomic nervous system . These essential nutrients support the nervous system and help maintain mental balance.
To calm your nerves during times of stress, regular periods of rest, mindful breathing, and gentle physical activity are particularly helpful. In addition, nutrients such as B vitamins and magnesium can strengthen the nervous system and reduce stress-related symptoms.
Our Anti-Stress Package is ideal for targeted support:
It combines three complementary products that support you on multiple levels—Pro Biom Anti-Stress modulates the gut-brain axis with psychobiotics, saffron extract, and biotin, thereby promoting your mental balance and stress resilience. Pro Magnesium strengthens the nervous system and promotes relaxation, while Pro Somnia Relax, with natural ingredients such as Lactium® and asparagus extract, counteracts inner restlessness and supports restful sleep.
A healthy autonomic nervous system can be supported through relaxation, exercise, and a balanced diet. In addition, specific nutrients can help:
- Pro Vitamin B Komplex – supports the nervous system and energy production.
- Pro Vitamin C Ultra – protects cells from oxidative stress.
- Pro Mineral Complete – provides the body with essential minerals such as magnesium and potassium, which are important for strong nerves and inner peace, among other things.
- Pro Somnia Relax – promotes restful sleep and lasting relaxation.
- Pro Biom Anti-Stress – strengthens the gut-brain axis, stabilizes the nervous system, and promotes inner balance.