Nervous System Conditioning Training (NSCT): Exercises

Part #1: Harnessing the Power of the Nervous System: The Power of Presence and Objectivity

In the journey of Nervous System Conditioning Training (NSCT), we’re not just training our bodies, but our mindfulness as well. Remember the analogy of carrying on an in-depth conversation while standing in cold water? It’s not just about tolerating the cold, but about being present with the sensation without letting it control our actions or focus.

One of the key principles of NSCT is learning to be with our experiences without reacting to them. This ability to remain objective allows us to operate at peak performance, even in high-stress environments.

A simple exercise to start with is the ‘Observation Exercise’. Here’s how to do it:

1. Sit comfortably and close your eyes.
2. Pay attention to what you’re feeling in your body. Do you feel any tension, warmth, coolness, tingling, or other sensations?
3. Instead of reacting or trying to change what you’re feeling, simply observe it. Let the sensations be there without judgment.
4. If your mind starts to wander or if you start to react to a sensation, gently bring your focus back to simply observing.

This simple exercise helps you to become more aware of your experiences in the moment. It trains you to be present and objective, key skills in NSCT.

Part #2: NSCT Exercise – Practicing Patience

Patience is a skill that can be cultivated, and it’s a vital part of Nervous System Conditioning Training (NSCT). One way to practice patience is through a simple exercise we’ll call the ‘Patience Exercise’.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Find a quiet place and set a timer for five minutes.
2. Sit comfortably and close your eyes.
3. Your task is to simply wait for the timer to go off. Sounds simple, but you may notice the urge to check the time or do something else.
4. When these urges or any other thoughts arise, acknowledge them, and let them pass without reacting. Simply return your focus to waiting patiently.

This exercise trains your ability to be with the present moment, even if it feels uncomfortable or boring. It’s a bit like our cold-water analogy – being able to stay focused on the conversation, despite the urge to react to the cold.

Part #3: NSCT Exercise – Mindful Walking: A Path to Presence

Mindful walking is an accessible practice that can transform a routine activity into a powerful exercise in mindfulness, aiding in Nervous System Conditioning Training (NSCT).

The art of Mindful Walking is not about getting from point A to B but about being fully present in each step. Here’s how to engage in this practice:

1. Choose a quiet location, where you can walk without major disruptions.
2. Begin walking at a relaxed pace. Notice the sensation of your feet making contact with the ground and the rhythm of your breath.
3. As you walk, your mind will inevitably wander. It might start reacting to sensations like a breeze brushing against your skin or the chirping of birds. This is normal.
4. When you notice your mind drifting, gently bring your focus back to the act of walking.

Recall our cold-water conversation analogy, the goal isn’t to ignore discomfort but to acknowledge it and maintain focus despite it. By engaging in mindful walking, we are training our nervous system to stay focused and present, even amidst distractions or discomfort. 

Part #4: NSCT Exercise – Observing Discomfort: Growth Amidst Unease

One of the cornerstones of Nervous System Conditioning Training (NSCT) is learning to exist with discomfort, observing it, but not letting it dictate our actions. The ‘Observing Discomfort’ exercise is a perfect way to develop this skill.

Here are the steps:

1. Locate a serene place to sit. Position yourself upright and cross your arms over your chest.
2. Close your eyes and tune into any discomfort that might arise from this posture.
3. Instead of adjusting your position to alleviate the discomfort, just observe it. Notice its location, its characteristics, and how it evolves.
4. If you catch yourself reacting to the discomfort, gently redirect your attention back to mere observation.

This exercise is designed to help us to train our nervous system to stay in the moment with discomfort without immediately reacting, thereby enabling us to maintain our focus. Our Nervous System Conditioning Training (NSCT) exercises offer powerful ways to enhance focus and manage reactions. To complement these benefits, consider exploring our Guided Meditation service. It offers a pathway to deeper self-awareness and mindfulness training over fears and unfulfilled desires. Ready to start your journey? Discover more about our Guided Meditation service today.