5 Signs You Might Be in Fight-or-Flight (and what to do about it!)
You’ve probably heard of the “fight-or-flight” response, that built-in alarm system designed to keep us safe from danger. Back in the day, it helped our ancestors run from danger or fend off predators. These days, it’s unlikely we’ll cross paths with a bear or cougar anytime soon, but the response is still deeply ingrained in us. Now, it’s more likely triggered by a Slack notification, a looming uncomfy conversation, or even constant loud city traffic.
The body doesn’t always know the difference between real danger and modern stress. When this response gets stuck in the “on” position, it can leave you feeling frazzled, depleted, and disconnected from yourself.
But awareness, and a little herbal support, can help your nervous system return to balance. Here are five signs your body might be stuck in fight or flight, along with gentle ways (and a few plant pals) to help restore calm.
1. You’re Always “On”
If your mind races through to-do lists at bedtime or you feel guilty when you finally rest, your nervous system might be locked in go-mode. Chronic busyness can mirror the same physiological patterns as danger; shallow breathing, tense shoulders, and a constant pull toward alertness.
Try this: Take a few slow, belly-deep breaths. The 4-7-8 method can be especially grounding: inhale through your nose for 4 seconds, hold for 7, and exhale through your mouth for 8. Repeat a few rounds until you feel your body begin to soften.
Herbal support: Stress Savior is crafted to support a healthy stress response. Nervines gently soothe and nourish the nervous system, reminding your body it’s safe to slow down, while adaptogens support a balanced stress response. Tart Cherry Magic Magnesium encourages your body to shift into sleep mode, supporting the ultimate restful recovery. Plus a microdose of plant-based melatonin helps you fall asleep quickly and stay asleep through the night. And no phone before bed!
2. Your Digestion Feels Off
When your body thinks you’re in danger, it reroutes energy away from “rest and digest” and toward survival. That means bloating, changes in appetite, constipation, or that all-too-familiar knot in your stomach can all be signs of an overworked nervous system.
Try this: Eat slowly and away from screens. Slow, mindful bites can help re-engage your parasympathetic nervous system (the one in charge of rest, repair, and digestion). Bitters can help too! Take a few drops of bitters or eat bitter herbs about 15–20 minutes before meals to gently signal to your body that it’s time to eat and prepare for digestion.
Herbal support: Blue Lemonade Magic Magnesium helps keep things moving. Magnesium citrate supports healthy digestive rhythms and promotes relaxation in the muscles and nerves, helping your body ease back into “rest and digest” mode.
3. You Feel Wired but Tired
That jittery but exhausted feeling? It’s a sign your adrenals have been working overtime, and your body is asking for a little extra care after spending too long in survival mode.
Try this: Slow, rhythmic movement; a walk, a stretch, or a few gentle yoga poses. With tired/wired energy, the body often needs to move through the stress response to release it.
Herbal support: Blue Lemonade Magic Magnesium supports both the nervous system and muscle relaxation, helping your body shift from “on alert” to a more grounded, calm state. Taken consistently, it encourages balance and restorative rest, so you can recover fully even after a high-stress day.
4. You’re Forgetful or Foggy
When your brain is focused on survival, it’s not prioritizing memory or focus. You might forget names, walk into a room and wonder why, or struggle to concentrate on even simple tasks.
Try this: Ground yourself through your senses. Notice five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste. This simple practice helps bring your mind and body back to the present.
Herbal support: Brain Bloom is formulated to support cognition and mental clarity, helping your brain reset and regain focus when stress has pulled it off balance.
5. You’re Startled Easily
If every ding, slam, or sudden sound makes you jump, it’s a sign your nervous system probably hasn’t fully come down from a state of alert.
Try this: Step outside for a short walk, even just five minutes. It might sound cliché, but sunlight, movement, and fresh air do wonders for reminding your body of its natural rhythms. Pair it with a warm cup of tea and a few mindful breaths to help settle your mind.
Herbal support: Tranquility Tonic is our go-to for nourishing the nervous system and soothing frazzled nerves. Taken consistently, it helps support a sense of calm and balance when life feels overstimulating.
Coming Back to Center
Your body is wise, it’s only trying to protect you. The trick is reminding it that the danger has passed. Simple daily rituals, like pausing to breathe, taking walks, enjoying a cup of tea, or sipping a nourishing beverage, can help bring you back into a state of calm connection.
You deserve to feel at home in your body. Restoring balance often begins with simply paying attention and letting your body know it’s safe.
