Literal “playing dead” This situation, which we call do, is based on many reasons, from our brain to the evolutionary process.

fight or flight Instead, we dig a little deeper into why we’re frozen.

The effect of shock on the brain

When we encounter a danger or a sudden event, the amygdala The mentioned structure goes into alarm status. The amygdala is the center of our emotional responses and alerts the body when it detects danger. “fight or flight” sends the signal.

However, there is a third option: to freeze Our brain, especially the prefrontal cortex, evaluates which of these three options is most suitable. When running or fighting is not possible, freezing comes into the picture.

Freezing is actually a way to escape predators or avoid attracting the attention of someone who doesn’t see the danger. to evolutionary origins It holds up.

Physiological basis of frostbite

During shock, the body releases adrenaline, which increases the heart rate, pumps more blood to the muscles and prepares the body for movement. At the same time, however, the parasympathetic nervous system also plays a role It calms the body.

Due to the conflicting effects of the two systems, muscles tense and we remain motionless. This physiological response allows us to remain inactive in the face of potential danger and wait for the danger to pass.

In the past, our ancestors avoided danger by freezing in the face of predators.

To freeze, not to attract the attention of predators and therefore increase chances of survival It was a defense mechanism for him. Today, this mechanism manifests itself as avoiding harm by remaining inactive, for example in the face of a sudden danger of an accident or an unexpected event.

Freezing at the moment of shock is not only a physiological, but also a psychological reaction.

When the brain perceives a sudden and unexpected situation, it remains temporarily inactive to gain time to understand the event. During this period, the brain the most appropriate answer try to determine.

In addition, some people who freeze remember very little about the current trauma he doesn’t remember it at all. This actually serves as a shield to protect our mental health.

to freeze our survival instinct It persists as part of the Next time you encounter an unexpected situation and freeze, know that this is one of the ways your body and brain protect you.

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