When you feel like you might scream the next time someone calls your name, spills something, or touches you, chances are, you’re overstimulated.
It’s incredibly common in motherhood, especially when you’re constantly surrounded by noise, mess, questions, and physical contact.
Let's look at some simple ways to bring your nervous system back to calm when things feel like too much.
Start by noticing the signs. Overstimulation can look like snapping over small things, feeling panicked by noise, needing space but not being able to get it, or just feeling like your skin is buzzing. If that’s you, you’re not broken, you’re human and you're carrying a LOT.
The first step is to step away if you can. Even 60 seconds in another room can help. Shut the bathroom door, step outside for a deep breath, or pop in some earbuds for a moment of quiet. It might not fix everything, but it gives your brain a break.
Lower the sensory input. Dim the lights, lower the volume, tidy one small space, or silence your phone notifications. Less sensory clutter helps your body reset faster.
Use grounding tools. Hold something cold, focus on your breath, or move your body in a gentle way. Even standing barefoot outside for a minute can help you feel more centred.
Give your nervous system something it can complete. That can be drinking a glass of water, doing a few stretches, or slowly washing your hands. These small acts send the signal that you're safe and in control again.
And when the moment passes, be kind to yourself. Overstimulation isn’t weakness. It’s a signal that you’ve been “on” for too long without enough space to recharge.
Build in regular reset points throughout the day, even tiny ones, so your nervous system doesn’t get pushed to the edge. You deserve calm just as much as everyone else in the house.
Let me know this goes for you! And if you'd like more tips like this, check out The Busy Mum's Guide to Making Life Easier.
x Marissa
