The brain grows from bottom to top, back to front, and inside out. The reason for this is evolutionarily: the brainstem and limbic system develop first in order to help each individual survive and the prefrontal cortex, responsible for higher-order thinking, is last on board. The “downstairs,” reflexive and emotional portions of the brain are wired for protection because survival is ultimately the most important task for every human being. This developmental phenomenon helps us to understand why negative experiences encoded as dangerous in some way are stored more strongly, quickly, and deeply in the brain.
Yet, as much as the human brain is evolutionarily superior to that of less developed species, it still struggles to accurately detect and assess threats. Thus, while staring down a par three over water, teeing off in front of a group of friends, or putting to win a match, we often interpret the situation as if we are being chased by a lion. Even though physical danger is not a reality, the brain responds as if it is, sending a danger message out to the rest of the body by way of the sympathetic nervous system. Physiological responses that prepare the body for fight/flight/freeze such as a fast beating heart, muscle tension, shallow breathing, sweaty palms, and even nausea follow. Our thoughts are also clouded/constricted by this perceived threat.
When we become aware of our fear triggers on the course and at work, better understand why our body is responding in the way that it is, and commit to calming the body through deep breathing and mindfulness exercises, we regain control of the moment.
When you are triggered on the course or at work, how do your mind and body react?
What helps you calm the mind and body?