Taming the Amygdala: Mastering Emotional Reactions
Episode Overview
Understand the concept of amygdala hijack and its impact on behaviour Explore strategies for managing stress and reducing emotional impulsivity Gain insights into the physiological responses to stress and anxiety Recognise the importance of self-awareness and mindfulness in emotional regulation Empower yourself to regain control over impulsive reactions and stress
The amygdala hijacks, it takes over and it becomes the sole mechanism. So what it does is it absolutely and utterly just totally overreacts. And this is not what we need. We need to be able to move through this.
Ever lashed out in a moment of stress and wondered why? Bonita Ackerman du Preez dives deep into this very issue in 'The Trauma Recovery School' podcast. She unpacks the concept of the 'amygdala hijack', where our brain's emotional center takes over, pushing rational thought aside. This episode is a must-listen if you've ever acted on impulse and regretted it later.
Bonita explains how our amygdala can trigger intense, often irrational responses when we perceive a threat, leading to actions driven by instinct rather than logic. She doesn't just leave it at that, though. Bonita offers practical advice on recognizing these stress signals and managing them. From practicing mindfulness to engaging in activities that release built-up tension, you'll learn how to spot the signs of an impending hijack and take steps to prevent it.
This episode is packed with valuable tips for anyone looking to gain better control over their emotional responses and reduce the negative impacts of stress. It's an insightful guide to understanding your brain's reactions and learning how to manage them effectively.