I wanted to speak about something that affects all of us in one way or another: our nervous system.
You might have heard about the fight or flight response when it comes to dealing with stress, but did you know there’s also something called the freeze response? It’s not as well-known, but it plays a big role in how we handle stress and can really affect our daily lives, understanding it can really help us navigate life better.
What’s This Freeze Response All About?
So, what does it mean when we say we’re “frozen”? Basically, it's that feeling when you just can’t move or react to what's happening around you. You might feel stuck, unable to make decisions, or even a bit dazed. It’s like your brain hits the pause button.
Do you sometimes feel like you’re in this freeze mode? Maybe social situations leave you feeling overwhelmed, and you just want to blend into the background. Maybe you can’t move forward with your career worried to make a wrong decision but you have this sense of urgency constantly. Sometimes it’s also this feeling that whole world is against you and things are never going your way. This response can be your body’s way of protecting you from stress, but if it becomes your go-to reaction, it can really affect how you live your life.
What Happened in Childhood?
You might be wondering why we sometimes end up in this freeze state. Often, it goes back to our childhood experiences. When kids face big stressors—like family arguments, bullying, comparing, critique or feeling ignored—their bodies can learn to freeze as a way to cope. It’s a survival mechanism that keeps them safe in tough situations.
Recognising this link can be a huge step towards healing. Understanding that your freeze response kept you safe at one point can make it easier to forgive yourself for feeling this way now.
How to Shift from Freeze to Chill
Now, let’s talk about how we can move from that freeze response to a more relaxed state known as “rest and digest.” Here are some simple breathing techniques to help you out:
1. Deep Belly Breathing: Breathe in deeply through your nose, letting your belly expand. Hold it for a moment, then let it all out through your mouth. Do this a few times, and you’ll start to feel the relaxation kick in.
2. Grounding Techniques: Try to engage your senses. Look around and name five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste. It’s a great way to bring yourself back to the present.
3. Mindfulness Meditation: Regular mindfulness practice can help train your brain to recognise when you’re in freeze mode and gently encourage it to come back to a calmer state.
Working Together
If you’re finding it tough to shake off that freeze response, I’d love to help you out. As a transformational coach, I work with clients to understand and regulate their nervous systems. Together, we can explore what’s been going on and create a plan that helps you feel safe and empowered again.
Also, don’t forget to check out the meditation resources on my website. They’re designed to help you find that inner peace and ease into a more balanced way of living.
Join Our Community
I’d also like to invite you to join our members’ group. It’s a fantastic space to connect with others who are on a similar journey. Sharing stories and learning from each other can create a real sense of community and support.
Remember, you’re not alone in this. Understanding and regulating your nervous system is a journey, and I’m here to guide you through it. If you’re ready to take that next step, get in touch to book a session or check out the resources available.
Comments