Modern understanding of neurodiversity increasingly centers on the nervous system — specifically, the chronic dysregulation that underlies many neurodiversity presentations.
The Nervous System in Neurodiversity
The autonomic nervous system has two primary states relevant to neurodiversity:
Sympathetic activation ('fight or flight'): When chronically activated, drives anxiety-type neurodiversity
Parasympathetic ('rest and digest'): The recovery state — undermined by neurodiversity
Dorsal vagal shutdown: A third state — freeze/collapse — associated with depression-type neurodiversity
Signs of Nervous System Dysregulation in Neurodiversity
Chronic hyperarousal (always 'on edge'), difficulty relaxing even in safe environments, and feeling perpetually exhausted despite rest.
Regulating the Nervous System for Neurodiversity
- Breathwork: Directly activates the parasympathetic nervous system
- Cold exposure: Controlled cold activates the vagus nerve, improving neurodiversity
- Safe social engagement: Co-regulation through trusted relationships
- Movement: Discharges sympathetic activation accumulated in neurodiversity