Staying Grounded During the Holiday Hustle: Nervous System Tips for Moms (and Kiddos!)

Practical tools for vagus nerve activation, travel tips for kids, and how chiropractic care can help you stay grounded through the holidays.

The holidays are filled with magic — the glow of the tree, the smell of cookies in the oven, the laughter of family gatherings. But let’s be honest… they can also bring a lot of stress. Between gift shopping, holiday travel,

disrupted sleep, sugar highs (and crashes), and family expectations, even the most grounded mom can start to feel a bit dysregulated.

At Vera Chiropractic, we see this every year — moms who are doing all the things for everyone else, but whose nervous systems are running on overdrive. The good news? You can support your body and your family’s well-being through this season by prioritizing nervous system regulation — both at home and through your chiropractic care.

---

Vagus Nerve Activation: A Simple Reset You Can Do Anywhere

On days when your schedule is packed or you’re traveling, there are still simple ways to support your nervous system. One of our favorites is a quick vagus nerve reset — a powerful way to shift your body from “fight or flight” into “rest and digest.”

Here’s how to do it:

1. Lie on your back with your knees bent.

2. Interlace your fingers behind your head for gentle support.

3. Keeping your head still, move only your eyes to the right and hold for 30–60 seconds — or until you feel a sigh, swallow, or yawn.

4. Return your eyes to center, then repeat on the left side.

This small exercise can bring immediate calm, helping your body and mind feel safe and grounded — even in the middle of holiday chaos.

Other quick vagus nerve–supporting habits:

• Deep, slow breathing (try exhaling longer than you inhale)

• Gentle humming or singing along to your favorite holiday music

• Splashing cold water on your face or ending your shower with 10 seconds of cool water

• Laughter — seriously, it’s one of the best nervous system resets out there!

---

Holiday Travel Tips for Regulated Kids (and Parents!)

Traveling with kids adds a whole new layer of stimulation — new environments, disrupted routines, and hours in the car or airport. Keeping their nervous systems regulated makes the journey smoother for everyone.

Here are a few of our favorite mom-approved travel tips:

Keep it fresh: Pack a few small toys or books that your kids haven’t seen in a while — or better yet, new ones you’ve tucked away just for the trip. The novelty keeps them engaged longer.

Snack smart: Bring along nourishing, low-sugar snacks like fruit, jerky, cheese sticks, or nut butter pouches. Having healthy options on hand helps everyone avoid the crash that comes from convenience foods.

Sensory soothers: Noise-canceling headphones, cozy blankets, or a favorite stuffed animal can help your little one feel safe and regulated in new settings.

Movement breaks: When you stop for gas or a bathroom break, take a few minutes to stretch, do jumping jacks, or take a short walk. Physical movement helps discharge built-up energy and supports regulation for both kids and adults.

---

A Final Word for Moms

Remember: you can’t pour from an empty cup. The holidays are more enjoyable when your body and nervous system are cared for — not just pushed through. Whether it’s taking a few deep breaths, scheduling that extra adjustment, or sneaking in five minutes of quiet, every small step toward regulation helps your family thrive.

This season, let’s trade stress for presence, chaos for calm, and exhaustion for joy. Your body — and your family — will thank you.

---

Ready to feel more grounded this holiday season? If you’ve been curious about how chiropractic care can help you (and your kids) stay calm, healthy, and adaptable through the holidays, now is the perfect time to start.

We’d love to welcome you into our community and walk alongside you on your wellness journey. 

✨ Schedule your new patient appointment at verachiropractic.com ✨