21/08/2025
When the nervous system slips into survival mode, reasoning almost shuts down.
In moments of stress or danger, the brain is wired to prioritise safety over logic.
The body’s fight, flight, or freeze response takes over, led by the amygdala — the part of the brain focused on survival. Meanwhile, the prefrontal cortex — the part that handles reasoning, logic, and impulse control — is pushed to the background.
That’s why, in survival mode, it can feel impossible to think straight, solve problems, or have a calm conversation.
The first step isn’t reasoning — it’s safety. Until the nervous system settles, the brain simply can’t engage fully. Once calm returns, then clarity, connection, and choice can follow.
Understanding this softens how we see ourselves and others — and helps us meet stress and conflict with more compassion. 🌺
