The amygdala, a small part of the brain, acts as a guard. When it detects danger it triggers the “fight or flight” response in a fraction of a second. In anxiety this guard becomes over-sensitive and sees threat in safe situations.
Why does slow breathing work?
An exhale longer than the inhale activates the vagus nerve and lowers heart rate. Try the 4-7-8 breathing exercise on this website’s home page.
When should you seek help?
If anxiety makes you avoid situations, disrupts your sleep or brings sudden waves of fear, cognitive-behavioural therapy is one of the most effective treatments.
Dr. Rezvan MahabPhD in Neuropsychology