How to Keep Your Cool in High-Stress Situations

Our natural tendency when confronted is to be defensive, and it is often hard to keep cool during a stressful situation.

The Polyvagal Theory, based on new research in neuroscience offers some insights on this automatic ‘fight-or-flight’ self-regulation done by us during moments of anxiety, pressure and stress. Specific tactics in the theory help us provide a better response which involves creativity, collaboration and thriving.

Our nervous system, specifically the vagus nerve, regulates threat and stressful situations, with a three-part response:

1. Level 1 - Immobilization: Reptiles, mammals and humans can suddenly become immobile when faced with a dire threat.
2. Level 2 - Mobilization: Faster heartbeat and an adrenaline rush is a classic fight-or-flight response and the most common.
3. Level 3 - Engagement And Connection: When there is safety, our body releases oxytocin, helping one become more open and experience connectedness, leading to learning and collaboration.