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How the Nervous System Supports Immune Function in Winter

  • 1 day ago
  • 3 min read

By Dr Jessica, Chiropractor

As the colder months arrive, many people notice an increase in colds, fatigue, disrupted sleep, and stress. While winter is often associated with germs and reduced sunlight, research also shows the nervous system plays an important role in immune health.


The nervous system and immune system communicate constantly through hormones, neurotransmitters, and inflammatory signals. This connection is studied within psychoneuroimmunology, a field exploring how stress, sleep, and nervous system regulation influence immune function (Dantzer, 2017).


The Nervous System and Immunity


The autonomic nervous system helps regulate many automatic body functions, including heart rate, breathing, digestion, and inflammatory responses.

When the body is under prolonged stress, the sympathetic nervous system, often called the “fight or flight” response, can remain highly active. Over time, chronic stress may increase inflammation and reduce aspects of immune function (Thayer & Sternberg, 2010).


In contrast, parasympathetic activity, often referred to as the “rest and digest” state, supports recovery, sleep, digestion, and repair.


Why Winter Can Increase Stress on the Body


Winter can place additional demands on the nervous system through:

  • Reduced sunlight exposure

  • Changes to sleep routines

  • Increased exposure to viruses

  • Less physical activity

  • Seasonal stress and fatigue


These factors may contribute to nervous system dysregulation, poor sleep, and increased inflammatory activity.


The Vagus Nerve and Immune Regulation


One of the key links between the nervous system and immune system is the vagus nerve. 


The vagus nerve helps regulate breathing, heart rate, digestion, and inflammatory responses. Researchers describe this as the “inflammatory reflex,” where the nervous system helps regulate immune activity and inflammation (Thayer & Sternberg, 2010).

Healthy vagal tone has been associated with:

  • Improved stress regulation

  • Better sleep quality

  • Reduced inflammation

  • More balanced immune responses


Simple activities that support nervous system regulation may also help support overall wellbeing during winter, including:

  • Gentle exercise

  • Deep breathing

  • Massage therapy

  • Quality sleep

  • Spending time outdoors


Sleep and Immune Health

 

Sleep is one of the most important ways the nervous system restores itself.

During sleep, the body produces immune signalling molecules that help fight infection and regulate inflammation. Ongoing stress and nervous system overload can interfere with sleep quality, which may reduce immune resilience over time.

Supporting healthy sleep habits during winter may help both nervous system and immune function. Helpful strategies can include:

  • Consistent sleep routines

  • Limiting screens before bed

  • Morning sunlight exposure

  • Relaxation practices before sleep


Supporting Your Nervous System This Winter


Supporting the nervous system during winter is not only about reducing stress. It is about helping the body shift into a state where recovery, repair, and regulation can occur more effectively.


At Realign Health Clinic, treatments such as massage therapy, chiropractic care, and acupuncture are designed to support nervous system regulation, reduce physical tension, and encourage relaxation during periods of increased stress and fatigue.

Many people find regular hands-on care beneficial during winter for:

  • Managing stress and muscle tension

  • Supporting relaxation and sleep quality

  • Improving body awareness and recovery

  • Encouraging overall wellbeing during busy or demanding periods


If you are feeling run down, stressed, tense, or struggling with winter fatigue, this season can be a valuable time to prioritise your health and nervous system support. Book online today.


References:

  • Dantzer R. Neuroimmune Interactions: From the Brain to the Immune System and Vice Versa. Physiol Rev. 2018 Jan 1;98(1):477-504. doi: 10.1152/physrev.00039.2016. PMID: 29351513; PMCID: PMC5866360.

  • Maier SF, Watkins LR, Fleshner M. Psychoneuroimmunology. The interface between behavior, brain, and immunity. Am Psychol. 1994 Dec;49(12):1004-17. doi: 10.1037//0003-066x.49.12.1004. PMID: 7818221.

  • Thayer JF, Sternberg EM. Neural aspects of immunomodulation: focus on the vagus nerve. Brain Behav Immun. 2010 Nov;24(8):1223-8. doi: 10.1016/j.bbi.2010.07.247. Epub 2010 Jul 30. PMID: 20674737; PMCID: PMC2949498.


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