In this season finale, we dive deep into a crucial topic for musicians: nervous system regulation. Understanding how to master this skill can be transformative for your career and personal well-being.

Episode Highlights:

• What is nervous system regulation?




• How dysregulation manifests in two ways:




• Hypoactivation: Wanting to shut down, hide, or feeling depressed.


• Hyperactivation: Increased heart rate, hypervigilance, perfectionism, and anxiety.






• The stories and fears that affect musicians:




• Fear of being seen.


• Worry about not being good enough.


• Fear of rejection or criticism.




• The disconnect between mind and body:




• Even if you know you're safe, your body may still react based on past experiences.




• Cheryl’s personal experience with anxiety and regulation:




• Learning to communicate with anxiety as a protective part of herself.


• Cultivating compassion for the body's response to fear.




• Practical tools to regulate your nervous system:




• Down-regulation techniques:




• Breathing through your nose to signal safety to your brain.


• Grounding: Lying on the floor, feeling your feet on the ground, or rubbing your arms.


• Listening to bird songs, singing, humming, or taking a hot bath.




• Up-regulation techniques (for hypoactivation):




• Walking, getting fresh air, or using a hot-and-cold shower.


• Flossing your teeth to focus your energy.






• Why this matters for your music career:




• Shortening the time you spend in dysregulation helps you stay aligned with your goals.


• Regulation enables you to connect authentically with your audience and build the fan base you deserve.

Resources Mentioned:

• Amplify Coaching: If you’re ready to work on your triggers and nervous system regulation, learn more about Cheryl’s trauma-informed coaching at http://www.inthekey.co/coach.


• Releasify App: Download the free Releasify app to elevate your music career and streamline your next release: http://www.inthekey.co/app

Thank you for joining me this season! Share this episode with your musician friends, and I’ll see you next season with more tools and inspiration to help you thrive.