It takes about six seconds for the chemicals released during an amygdala hijack to begin dissipating. Use this time to focus on something neutral or pleasant.
When you feel a "hijack" coming on, these tools can send a "stand down" signal to the amygdala: It takes about six seconds for the chemicals
The amygdala is the brain's "alarm system" that triggers fight-or-flight responses. "Taming Your Amygdala: Brain-Based Strategies to Quiet the
"Taming Your Amygdala: Brain-Based Strategies to Quiet the Anxious Mind" is a workbook by Dr. Catherine Pittman that uses neuroscience and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you manage anxiety by "retraining" your brain. It takes about six seconds for the chemicals
Use "bottom-up" strategies like progressive muscle relaxation or holding something cold (like a splash of cold water on the face) to shift your nervous system out of fight-or-flight. 3. Rewiring the Brain Over Time
Your "thinking brain" (the cortex) can sometimes "scare" the amygdala with "what-if" thoughts. Identifying these triggers and replacing them with more balanced alternatives helps break the anxiety loop.
Gradually facing what triggers you teaches the amygdala that these situations are not life-threatening.