Fight or flight? Ya wanna fight, fight me! Kidding. No fighting, please. This is a happiness show! So, most of us have heard through the years about fight or flight. Actually, the saying seems to be overused and many truly have no idea how in-depth it actually is. Let’s get into it, shall we?
The fight or flight response is an automatic physiological reaction to an event that is perceived as stressful or frightening. The perception of threat activates the sympathetic nervous system and triggers an acute stress response that prepares the body to fight or flee. In our primal days, this was very important for our survival. Like for real. The very real and potential dangers of being killed by large animals or other things.
These days we can certainly say we live less dangerous lives. Meaning we don’t have to be on the ready like centuries ago. But every now and then we do face real dangers that our bodies need to help us through it with fresh pumping adrenaline. It helps us get through situations better. Stay and fight to survive or flee and hide for cover. Whatever it is your body will try to help. We need to minimize stress.
Since we live less dangerous lives we end up stressing out over less chaotic things and still get the primal dose of fight or flight. Our DNA didn’t calibrate for the changes. I wonder if cavemen were stressed out all the time like many of us today. Anyway, since we still feel the “false” fight or flight, it still takes a large toll on our mental health and well-being.
If left unchecked, years and years can go by without helping yourself through it in healthy ways. Then whatever the constant stressors were they could end up in your subconscious mind. Out of sight, back of mind! See what I did there? Ha! So much time could have gone by with the same draining BS stress and anxiety and now it’s your way of life unconsciously.
I know this first hand. Believe it or not, I am currently going through it. Yep, apparently, it’s been built up for years and I didn’t even realize it. So, what a freakin minute! Aren’t I a type of life coach? Absolutely, this type of stuff happens to everyone. Look at your mechanic’s personal car. It’s like a 1989 Accord that breaks down a lot. But, he’s a great mechanic, and he will get you on your way reliably! We all have stuff we must work on.
My perceived issue is that even though I was in the whole fight or flight stress and anxiety for many years I have done more than 5 years of internal work to get me where I am at. That’s fantastic! But there may have been a lot of stuff that I didn’t fix that was affecting me. Well, I am not currently in that crazy world so to me it doesn’t make sense for me to open those cans up unnecessarily.
Disclaimer: This isn’t psychological advice for you guys in any way shape or form.
Each person is different. I will be trying to work on myself in different ways to arrive at a healthier life. It seems that the constant fight or flight has taken hold of my physical health as well. Who knew? Shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, back pain, and so on. I do have a history of back issues with 4 surgeries under my belt so at this rate who knows what’s coming from where.
Conclusion
I have a great life and I work hard on myself day in and day out. But sometimes that may not be enough. Then it’s time to seek professional help. Be it counseling regiments, more meditation, more vacations, medication, whatever. Pay attention to your signs now before the wear and tear of fight or flight kicks in. Once it does it seems like it will be a beast to get rid of. I am hopeful and giving it my all! Keep up the good work guys and know we are here for you!
