Re-defining Self-Care: Part 2

Part 2 of this series will give a brief explanation of the autonomic nervous system's two branches. The sympathetic nervous system known as survival mode or the fight-flight-freeze response (FFF-dysregulation) is our primitive response to perceived danger such as when we are walking and a car almost hits us. The parasympathetic nervous system is the rest and digest mode where we can relax and feel safe (regulation) in our body and in our environment after an upsetting event.

Why is it necessary to include the brain and autonomic nervous system in self-care? Thanks to current neuroscience research we know the brain and autonomic nervous system are key to optimal functioning and regulation of the brain and body. This system impacts every body part or process. While it is normal for us to experience alarm throughout the day after an upsetting incident we are supposed to return to calm and once again feel safe in the body after each event. The outcome of prolonged states of fight-flight-freeze (FFF survival mode) creates a hyper state of arousal, anxiety and even panic. Eventually these heightened states begin to feel like the new normal. Survival does not encourage well-being, happiness or fulfilling relationships.