How to Recognize and Overcome Functional Freeze
- Brainz Magazine
- Jan 20
- 5 min read
Written by Petra Brunnbauer, Wellbeing Coach
Petra Brunnbauer is an award-winning Wellbeing Coach, founder of The Jōrni® wellbeing platform, and host of the globally-ranked Jōrni Podcast. With a Master’s in Psychology and as a doctoral student in Mind-Body Medicine, Petra is committed to advancing holistic approaches to health and healing.
Do you feel constantly overwhelmed, as though your body is running on empty while your mind races to keep up? This frustrating state of being both "on" and "off" at the same time is more common than you might think. It could be a result of Functional Freeze, a mixed nervous system response to chronic stress. Functional Freeze occurs when your nervous system simultaneously activates the fight-or-flight response while partially shutting down. It’s like driving with one foot on the gas and the other on the brake. This article explores how Functional Freeze can manifest in your life, its impact on your well-being, and holistic strategies to help you manage and regain balance.
What is Functional Freeze?
Functional Freeze is a mixed nervous system response to prolonged stress or trauma, characterized by the simultaneous activation of the fight-or-flight response (Sympathetic Nervous System, or SNS) and partial shutdown (Parasympathetic Nervous System, or PNS). This state can leave individuals feeling stuck, both physically and emotionally, while continuing to perform daily tasks at a high cost to their well-being.
Unlike burnout, which often manifests as a visible lack of energy, Functional Freeze may appear less evident. Outwardly, individuals seem functional, but inwardly, they grapple with detachment, brain fog, and emotional disconnection. This paradoxical state arises when the stress response mechanisms become dysregulated, trapping the body in a dual mode of activation and partial shutdown.
The science behind Functional Freeze
Functional Freeze reflects the body’s intricate response to prolonged stress, where systems meant to protect us remain active in conflicting ways, as highlighted in Polyvagal Theory. This theory explains how the vagus nerve regulates our nervous system's responses to perceived threats and safety. In Functional Freeze, both the SNS (responsible for fight-or-flight) and the dorsal branch of the PNS (linked to immobilization and conservation of energy) are activated simultaneously, creating a complex and taxing state.
Key points
Chronic stress dysregulates the nervous system, leading to hypervigilance (fight-or-flight) alongside hypoarousal (shutdown).
This dual activation creates a feeling of being “stuck,” both physically and mentally.
Manifestations can include emotional numbness, fatigue, decision paralysis, and cognitive challenges.
Understanding these processes is the first step toward breaking free from Functional Freeze and reclaiming energy and connection.
Recognizing Functional Freeze manifestations
Emotional
Functional Freeze often manifests as emotional numbness or detachment. You might feel disconnected from your emotions, unable to experience joy, or indifferent to things you once loved. This emotional disconnection can strain relationships, leaving you feeling isolated and misunderstood.
What to do: Begin reconnecting with your emotions through grounding exercises or expressive writing. Journaling about your feelings can help you identify suppressed emotions and start processing them in a safe, structured way. Joining a supportive community or therapy group can further help you rebuild emotional connections.
Physical
Persistent fatigue, muscle tension, headaches, and a weakened immune system are common physical signs. These symptoms indicate that your body is depleting its energy reserves, operating in survival mode without proper recovery.
What to do: Incorporate restorative practices like yoga, tai chi, or somatic movement therapy. Prioritize sleep by creating a consistent bedtime routine, and consider incorporating anti-inflammatory foods to support your body’s recovery. Regularly scheduling relaxation time can help reset your nervous system.
Cognitive
Mental fog, difficulty focusing, and indecision are hallmark cognitive symptoms of Functional Freeze. These symptoms make even simple decisions feel overwhelming, contributing to frustration and self-doubt.
What to do: Use tools like planners or digital apps to organize your day. Practice mindfulness meditation to clear your mind and regain focus. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can also help reframe unhelpful thought patterns that exacerbate cognitive challenges.
The hidden triggers of Functional Freeze
Societal expectations and comparison
Social media and societal pressures often create unrealistic benchmarks for success. Constantly comparing yourself to others can fuel feelings of inadequacy, keeping you stuck in Functional Freeze.
Action step: Limit social media usage and focus on your personal journey. Celebrate small victories rather than comparing your progress to others.
Fear of rejection and perfectionism
Perfectionism often masks a fear of failure or rejection, preventing you from taking risks or seeking support when needed.
Action step: Identify perfectionistic tendencies and replace them with self-compassion. Set realistic, flexible goals to ease the pressure of unrealistic expectations.
Long-term effects of Functional Freeze
Without intervention, Functional Freeze could lead to:
Chronic health issues: High cortisol levels can cause cardiovascular problems and hormonal imbalances.
Relationship strain: Emotional disconnection may erode trust and intimacy.
Career stagnation: Cognitive impairments and self-doubt hinder professional growth.
Understanding these potential consequences highlights the urgency of addressing Functional Freeze proactively.
Holistic strategies to break free
1. Reconnect with your body
Rebuilding the mind-body connection is critical. Practices like somatic experiencing or body scanning can release stored tension and recalibrate your nervous system.
Action step: Dedicate 10 minutes daily to mindful movement. Focus on physical sensations to anchor yourself in the present moment.
2. Regulate your nervous system
Techniques like breathwork, mindfulness, and cold exposure can help regulate the vagus nerve, promoting relaxation and recovery.
Action step: Try alternating hot and cold showers to stimulate the vagus nerve. Pair this with diaphragmatic breathing exercises for optimal results.
3. Build emotional resilience
Building emotional resilience requires acknowledging and processing your feelings in a safe space. Creative outlets like art or music can be powerful tools for expression.
Action step: Explore journaling prompts like, “What do I need to feel safe?” or “How can I express my emotions today?” Join an art or music therapy session to deepen your emotional exploration.
4. Rediscover joy and connection
Reengaging with activities that bring joy and meaning can reignite your sense of purpose and connection.
Action step: Commit to weekly social or creative activities. Volunteering or joining a hobby group can foster both joy and community.
5. Address trauma through professional help
Unresolved stress and trauma from past experiences may contribute to Functional Freeze. Trauma-informed therapy, such as EMDR or somatic therapy, could help address these root causes.
Action step: Research trauma-informed therapists in your area and book a consultation. Discuss your symptoms and explore therapies that suit your needs.
6. Cultivate self-compassion
Functional Freeze often thrives on self-criticism. Shifting to a compassionate perspective helps you recover with greater ease.
Action step: Start a daily gratitude practice by listing three things you appreciate about yourself and your life.
Practical tools for everyday recovery
Mindfulness apps: Use apps like Calm or Headspace to guide daily relaxation practices.
Physical tools: Foam rollers and acupressure mats can relieve tension in overworked muscles.
Community support: Joining online groups focused on stress recovery can provide encouragement and shared strategies.
Why holistic healing is essential
Recovering from Functional Freeze isn’t about suppressing experiences, it’s about addressing the root causes. A holistic approach, integrating physical, emotional, and mental practices, fosters resilience and ensures sustainable recovery.
Take the first step
Breaking free from Functional Freeze begins with intentional, small steps. Whether it’s practicing breathwork, reconnecting with loved ones, or seeking professional help, each action propels you closer to a life of balance and fulfillment.
Ready to take the next step? Discover practical tools and strategies in The Functional Freeze Formula™ to regain balance, reconnect, and move toward a more fulfilling life.
Petra Brunnbauer, Wellbeing Coach
Petra Brunnbauer is an award-winning Wellbeing Coach, founder of The Jōrni® wellbeing platform, and host of the globally-ranked Jōrni Podcast. With a Master’s in Psychology and as a doctoral student in Mind-Body Medicine, Petra is committed to advancing holistic approaches to health and healing.
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