Ultimate Guide to Calm for Your Destination Wedding Experience

 

Welcome to the Ultimate Guide to Calm for your Epic Destination Wedding! Amidst the whirlwind of excitement, pre-wedding jitters might be playing a wild symphony on your nerves. This guide is your passport to a serene journey, where we unravel the mysteries of calming the nervous system. Brace yourself for tranquil tips and practices that will not only ease those butterflies but also pave the way for a serene and unforgettable wedding celebration in your dream destination surrounded by your tried and true favorite family and friends.

 

“If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up people to collect wood and don’t assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea.” Antoine de Saint Exupéry

 

What’s been on my mind lately is peace. Peace of mind, inner peace, peace with life and the people in it, peace with the past and peace with what’s to come. Believing in best case scenario without feeling the need to control and predict the worst possible outcome. Feeling into all the moments of peace as I journey throughout each day. Finding reasons to feel peace within. After all, peace equals prosperity.

 

I’ve been checking in with myself a lot lately. Asking questions like “how am I doing? and helping myself feel into peace within with affirmations and noticing all the magical moments throughout the day. Whether it’s pausing to enjoy a butterfly dancing, feeling into the beauty of the sunlight shining or marveling at the sky, I am filled with wonderment and peace.

 

It was Gandhi who said, “We but mirror the world. All the tendencies present in the outer world are to be found in the world of our body. If we could change ourselves, the tendencies in the world would also change.”

 

And so, in search of greater peace, we created Ultimate Guide to Calm for your Epic Destination Wedding so that you can also feel peace even on full days with many moving parts. Let’s take a peek into your central nervous system.

 

The central nervous system is mind-blowing. Think of it as our body’s communication hub, made up of the brain and spinal cord. The brain is where the magic happens—it’s our thinking, feeling, and decision-making HQ.

 

Different regions handle various tasks, from memory to interpreting sensory information. Then, the spinal cord is the messenger, shuttling signals between the brain and the body, making movement and sensations possible. It’s like our internal Wi-Fi network! Our perception of the world is a direct influencer on our central nervous system. Emotions, thoughts, and experiences shape how our nervous system functions. For instance, stress or anxiety can trigger specific reactions in the brain, affecting things like neurotransmitters and hormones, which can impact our overall well-being.

 

On the flip side, positive experiences can actually boost neural connections and enhance brain function. It’s all about how we perceive and interpret what’s around us. The good news is you’ve got a bunch of options to boost neural connections and amp up brain function.

 

Calming Your Central Nervous System

 

Dive into activities each day that challenge your mind. Learning new things—be it a language, musical instrument, or even a new sport like surfing (I learned how to surf in my late thirties and it truly has enhanced my life). Physical exercise, particularly workouts, dancing, swimming, sparks the growth of fresh neurons and connections in the brain.

 

Don’t underestimate the power of activities like meditation, mindfulness, or social interactions; they’re all ingredients for positive experiences that keep the brain in top shape.

 

Nature’s got some serious influence on our nervous system, and while there might not be a ton of specific hammock research, the overall picture is pretty clear. I can attest to the benefits of spending time in a hammock while in nature and how it has truly benefited my nervous system. Hanging out in nature has a stress-busting effect. Studies show that time spent in natural settings helps lower cortisol levels, which is a big player in stress. It’s like hitting the ‘calm’ button for the nervous system. Pair that with some relaxation time, and you’ve got a winning combo for taming the stress response and embracing a sense of peace.

 

Magnesium plays a vital role in supporting the central nervous system. It’s a key player in regulating neurotransmitters and aiding in the transmission of signals between nerve cells. Plus, it’s the go-to for chilling out muscles and giving the nervous system that ‘ahh’ feeling. Getting enough magnesium is linked to better sleep, dialing down anxiety, and even helping manage stress by giving the nervous system a more balanced vibe.

 

Affirmations are game-changers!

Affirmations, like ‘I am safe,’ ‘I am whole,’ and ‘Peace begins with me,’ have a positive impact on our perceptions and the central nervous system. Repeating positive affirmations can influence our mindset and emotions, triggering a more relaxed and optimistic outlook. This, in turn, can lead to reduced stress, lower cortisol levels, and a more balanced nervous system response. When we repeat phrases like ‘I am safe,’ ‘I am whole,’ and ‘Peace begins with me,’ it’s like giving our brain a dose of positivity. They shape our mindset and emotions, steering us toward a more relaxed and optimistic stance. Using affirmations regularly rewires the brain, creating a sense of safety and peace, influencing how we interact with the world.

 

Cold showers or cold plunges are like a superhero reset button! They can potentially jazz up your alertness, get your blood flowing like a pumped-up superhero, give your skin and hair a fabulous glow, and even speed up muscle recovery after hardcore workouts. But that’s not all; the icy plunge might also amp up your mood and turn you into a stress-resilient champion. It’s like a power-up for your body and mind! Cold showers or plunges are believed to have potential benefits for the central nervous system. The exposure to cold temperatures stimulate the nervous system, leading to increased alertness and an adrenaline rush, which improve your mood and mental resilience.

 

The Power of Laughter

Seriously, never underestimate the power of a good laugh. Laughter releases feel-good chemicals in your brain that can soothe your CNS like a gentle massage for your mind.

 

Dance Like No One’s Watching

Put on your favorite music and dance like there’s no tomorrow. It’s a fantastic way to release stress and stimulate those brain cells.

 

Hug It Out

Hugs release oxytocin, the love hormone. Embrace your loved ones often. It’s like a warm, fuzzy blanket for your CNS.

 

 

Mind-Bending Adventures

Challenge your mind with mind-bending puzzles and riddles. The more you boggle your brain, the sharper it becomes.

 

 

Dream Journal

Keep a dream journal. Exploring the depths of your subconscious mind can be a thrilling adventure that keeps your CNS engaged.

 

Travel the World

Travel not only broadens your horizons but also your CNS experiences. New environments and cultures can stimulate your brain in unique ways.

 

Adopt a Furry Friend

Pets can bring immeasurable joy. Caring for them releases dopamine, making both you and your CNS happy.

 

Extreme Sports (or not)

Whether it’s skydiving, running up a bridge, snorkeling, surfing or simply taking a leisurely walk in the park, challenge your limits. Adrenaline can be quite the CNS wake-up call.

 

Mindful Creativity

Get artsy! Drawing, painting, photographing, writing, or any creative pursuit can be a fantastic way to relax your CNS.

 

Practice Mindfulness

Learn the art of mindfulness meditation. It’s like a spa day for your brain, bringing tranquility to your CNS.

 

 

Conquer Your Fears

Face your fears head-on. Get to the root of why you have this fear. Overcoming challenges can boost your confidence and CNS resilience. Check out ‘My Friend Fear: Fining Magic in the Unknown’ by Meera Lee Patel.

 

 

“Fear invites the impossible to happen”

Meera Lee Patel.

 

 

Plan a Starry Night

Stargazing can be a humbling and awe-inspiring experience that reminds you of the vastness of the universe and your place in it.

 

Embrace Your Unique Self

Celebrate your individuality. Your CNS will thank you for the freedom to be your true self.

 

Brainwave Entrainment

Experiment with brainwave entrainment using binaural beats or isochronic tones. These audio tools can help tune your CNS to specific frequencies for relaxation, focus, or creativity.

 

“Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear, not absence of fear”

Mark Twain

 

Lucid Dreaming

Learn the art of lucid dreaming. It’s like a secret passage to a parallel universe where your CNS can explore uncharted territories. Below are three tips for lucid dreaming.

 

The first tip, which is the best tip, is to keep a dream journal. Effie’s Paper is one of my favorite places to find a journal.

 

Second tip is called ‘reality check’. Throughout the day ask yourself many times a day “Am I dreaming? Is this a dream” and you’ll find yourself in your dream asking yourself this. When you realize you’re dreaming (while you’re actually dreaming), this is what a lucid dream actually is and it is when lucid dreaming becomes more profound.

 

Final tip is to set your alarm to five hours after you go to bed. As soon as you wake up, think about and journal the dream you’ve had. When you give yourself the intention to wake up and remember your dream, it usually happens. For more info on lucid dreaming take a look at the Monore Institute.

“All that we see of seem is but a dream within a dream”

Edgar Allan Poe

 

Telepathy Training

Try telepathy exercises with your closest friends or family. Who knows, you might unlock new levels of connection through your CNS.

 

Digital Detox Challenge

Take a digital detox challenge. Disconnect from screens for a week and let your CNS detox from the digital noise.

 

Mind Palace Creation

Build your very own “mind palace” inspired by the method of loci. It’s like creating a mental retreat for your CNS.

 

Creating a mind palace is like designing your mental theme park! Imagine constructing a space in your mind, perhaps your home or a place familiar to you, and associating each room or spot with pieces of information or memories. It’s like mapping out a city of knowledge within your mind, where you stroll through the corridors of your thoughts, linking facts or ideas with the nooks and crannies of your imagined space. It’s an amazing way to enhance your memory and retain information! How would you build your unique mind palace?

 

Time Travel in Your Mind

Close your eyes, focus, and mentally travel through time. Visit your past or future, and let your CNS explore the realms of imagination.

 

Mental time transports you through memories and potential scenarios! It’s all about mentally immersing yourself in past experiences or visualizing potential future events. Your mind becomes the time machine, zooming through the corridors of your memories or zipping into the uncharted territories of future possibilities. It’s a fascinating ability we all possess—to journey through time without leaving our chair! Revisiting the past can offer insights and personal growth by learning from past experiences. On the other hand, projecting into the future aids in setting goals, making plans, and fostering a sense of readiness for what’s to come. It’s like a superhero power for self-improvement!

 

The best technique for mental time travel is subjective, much like finding your favorite flavor of ice cream! Some find mindfulness or meditation helpful, while others swear by journaling and yoga nidra sleep meditation. It’s about finding what works best for you, whether it’s deep contemplation, meditation, or simply immersing yourself in vivid daydreams. It’s your mind—chart your path to the past or future as it suits you!

 

 

Sensory Deprivation Tank

If you’re feeling adventurous, try a sensory deprivation tank. It’s a float in a pitch-black, soundproof tank filled with Epsom salt. Your CNS will go on a sensory adventure! I have yet to try this but I do enjoy taking Epsom salt baths.

Epsom salt is like a little bag of magic! Many believe it’s great for relaxing and rejuvenating. Dissolved in a warm bath, it’s said to soothe sore muscles, reduce swelling, and promote an overall sense of relaxation. Some even claim it works wonders in stress relief and enhancing the quality of your beauty sleep. It’s like a spa day in your bathtub! Have you tried using Epsom salt for any specific benefits?

 

CNS Holographic Projection

Imagine projecting your thoughts as holograms. Your CNS becomes the projector of your unique ideas and visions.

 

The power of your imagination is infinite! It’s the fuel for creativity, innovation, and problem-solving. Your imagination is like a blank canvas, where you can paint the wildest scenarios and dream up ideas that haven’t seen the light of day. It’s the gateway to endless possibilities, where you’re the architect of your own reality.

 

Unlock Your Psychic Potential

Dive into books and courses on psychic abilities. Explore your potential beyond the conventional boundaries of the CNS.

 

DIY Brain Enhancements

With brain enhancement projects like biohacking you are your own mad scientist—making lifestyle changes to boost health and performance, often tinkering with biology. Brain enhancements are all about turbocharging your mind through methods like nutrition and exercise or cool tech. The perks? Picture sharper focus, a memory like a steel trap, heightened creativity, and overall superhero-like cognitive abilities. It’s like leveling up your brain to superhero status!

 

Some Resources

Want to know more about the fascinating world of the central nervous system, check out these books…

“Principles of Neural Science” by Eric Kandel,

“The Human Brain Book” by Rita Carter,

“Essentials of Neural Science and Behavior” by Eric R. Kandel

They unravel the mysteries of the brain and its intricate workings in a way that’ll leave you absolutely spellbound.

‘Neuroscience: Exploring the Brain’ by Mark F. Bear,

‘The Brain That Changes Itself’ by Norman Doidge,

and take a peek at resources from big players like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) or the Mayo Clinic—they’ve got loads of reliable info.

 

We’ve put together some unconventional and imaginative ideas for the Ultimate Guide to Calm for your Epic Destination Wedding. Some are purely speculative, but the essence is to encourage you to think beyond the ordinary and let your CNS lead you into extraordinary territories of thought and experience. Enjoy the journey!

 

My hope for this blog post is that you find it useful and that it inspires you to dream, to grow and to create in fabulously authentic ways. May we all deepen our sense of self-love, creativity, cultivate positive change, peace and joy in our lives. May we take time to acknowledge all that we have to be thankful for and recognize that we are straight-up MAGIC!

I truly appreciate your time. If you have any suggestions, questions or thoughts please call or email judith@judithrae.com. I look forward to hearing from you!

wishing you memorable travels ahead!

 

Judith Rae

 

P.S. WANT MORE LIKE THIS, READ: 3 Tips for your Next Epic Travel Adventure.