The second in our series of stress types deals with the Flight reaction.
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In this series, we explore the four common stress types: Fight, Flight, Freeze and Fawn. Read about what these automatic stress reactions are and the first type - Fight - here.
An automatic flight reaction corresponds with avoidant behavior and by the desire to escape.
working toward perfection in all aspects of life so that no one can criticize or challenge you
ending relationships when feeling threatened, or before your partner can break up with you
avoiding conflict, or any situation that brings up difficult or painful emotions
using work, hobbies, or even alcohol and substances to fend off feelings of fear, anxiety, or panic
Flight: Skillful Response to Practice
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When faced with situations that spark the impulse to escape, the first step is to recognize whether it arises from a survival or a comfort impulse. Our biology is programmed to respond to survival impulses, and sometimes it is essential to act upon them for safety.
However, past experiences like these can trigger the nervous system to flee in all stressful situations - even those that simply impact our comfort level, not our survival. Discerning the difference between the two opens the space for choosing a more appropriate response.
Coping techniques can calm the nervous system in the moment when you take that pause to examine the impulse.
These include taking actions that are tactile and grounding, like drinking a warm beverage to reorient and calm your body, or by bringing awareness into the sensation of your feet connecting with the ground. Once you have calmed the nervous system, you can re-align with your goals and consider your next steps from a clearer space.
Long term practice of these activities can have a significant and lasting impact on your behaviors and relationships.
Read for the next in our series - the Freeze Reaction - here.
Let your wisdom lead,
Robin
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P.S.
I’m heading to Spain next week! Follow along on my journey on Instagram
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