Maintaining a balanced nervous system is essential when it comes to sustained peak performance.
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CO-CEO, NEUROFIT
1 MINUTE READ
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UPDATED MAY 17, 2023
PEAK PERFORMANCE & PLAY
Play is the ideal nervous system state for peak performance - a balance between the safety of Ventral Vagal, and the high-energy readiness of the Sympathetic state. This refers to a state of mind and body where we are relaxed, able to focus, and capable of creativity. When athletes are in this state during competition, it's commonly referred to as being "in the zone".
HOW ALLOSTATIC LOAD IMPACTS PEAK PERFOMANCE
Allostatic load, or the cumulative wear and tear on the body from stress, can take a toll on performance if not managed properly. With high allostatic load, the nervous system shifts into a dysregulated state more easily, making it more difficult to remain in the Play state where our performance is at its best.
THE WINDOW OF TOLERANCE
The nervous system's window of tolerance is one other concept to understand. This refers to the range of stimulation that the nervous system can tolerate before it becomes overwhelmed. Normally, when we are outside of this window, we are more likely to experience stress and anxiety, which can impact performance. However, through regular practices that strengthen the nervous system, our window of tolerance can be stretched and expanded - making it easier to access peak performance even in challenging situations.
A BALANCED NERVOUS SYSTEM FACILITATES PEAK PERFORMANCE
In essence, by prioritizing nervous system regulation, we can prepare our bodies to be much more conducive to sustained peak performance.
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.
Nervous System Fitness is the degree of flexibility and resilience of one's nervous system. The name implies that the 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.
In the Play state, the Sympathetic and Ventral Vagal 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.
Learn about the nervous system and relieve stress at the source with NeuroFit - available for iOS and Android.
Vagal tone is a measure of the activity of the vagus nerve. A high vagal tone indicates a high level of activity of the vagus nerve, which indicates increased sense of safety, compassion, and social openness around others. On the other hand, a low vagal tone indicates a low level of activity of the vagus nerve, which is associated with increased anxiety, fear, and isolation.
Learn about the nervous system and relieve stress at the source with NeuroFit - available for iOS and Android.