When we're in the zone, completely focused, and time seems to disappear, we're in the Play state.
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CO-CEO, NEUROFIT
1 MINUTE READ
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UPDATED MAR 21, 2023
THE PLAY STATE: FOCUS & FUN
We all know the feeling: We're in the zone, time seems to disappear, and we're completely focused on the task at hand. We're in the Play state.
THE NEUROBIOLOGY OF PLAY
This state is a blend of the Ventral Vagal and Sympathetic responses. The Ventral Vagal response is responsible for the "rest and digest" functions of the body, while the Sympathetic response is responsible for the "fight or flight" response.
In the Play state, these two responses are in balance. We're alert and focused, but we're also relaxed and in control. This state is beneficial for overall well-being because it allows us to tap into our creativity, problem-solve more effectively, and build strong social bonds. It also builds resistance to the Sympathetic stress response, ensuring that we only experience activation in response to actual threats.
PLAY IS A STRESS ANTIDOTE
The next time you're feeling stressed, take a break and find a way to play for a few minutes. It's one of the best ways to quickly re-balance the nervous system.
On average, NeuroFit members who prioritize daily social play report 26% more balanced check-ins.
80% of the nerves in the human body are "afferent" - running from body to brain. Under stress, when the nervous system and thinking brain tell different stories, the nervous system almost always wins.
NeuroFit is a nervous system trainer. Through daily check-ins, biometric measurements via your phone's camera, and tailored exercises, it removes stress at the source. Available for iOS & Android.
The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the "fight or flight" response. This is the body's natural response to a perceived threat. The sympathetic nervous system kicks in and prepares the body to either fight the threat or run away from it. The body's heart rate increases, blood flow to the muscles increases, and the body releases adrenaline and other hormones.
Learn about the nervous system and relieve stress at the source with NeuroFit - available for iOS and Android.
Neurological Fitness is the degree of balance, flexibility, and resilience of one's nervous system. The name implies that one's nervous system can be trained and strengthened, much like physical fitness.
Learn about the nervous system and relieve stress at the source with NeuroFit - available for iOS and Android.
The ventral vagal nervous system state is a state of relaxation and calmness. It is characterized by slow and deep breathing, a slow heart rate, and a feeling of peace and openness.
Learn about the nervous system and relieve stress at the source with NeuroFit - available for iOS and Android.