Why Post-Event Dysregulation Happens

Your nervous system doesn’t turn off when the party ends. If you’ve been masking, people-pleasing, or scanning for safety all night, your body is probably on high alert—even if your smile said otherwise.

Signs You’re Dysregulated (Even If You “Held It Together”)

• Trouble falling asleep
• Replay loops (“Why in the world did I say that?”)
• Emotional eating
• A tight chest or racing thoughts

The Nervous System Cool Down

Try these three post-social rituals:

1. Breath + Movement Reset
   • Inhale for 4, exhale for 6 (longer exhales = downregulation)
   • Gentle twists or shoulder rolls to release energy
2. Sensory Clearing
   • Change into cozy clothes
   • Light a candle or use lavender oil
   • Take a warm shower to physically and energetically reset
3. Oxytocin-Based Repair
   • Cuddle with a pet, partner, or cozy blanket
   • Watch something light and comforting
   • Wrap yourself in a heavy blanket

Building Resilience Over Time

Every time you give your nervous system a soft landing, you’re expanding your capacity for future events. This is how you build embodied safety. Try these practices after your next gathering and let me know if you notice a difference in the morning.