‘Functional Freeze’ could be the reason you struggle to get out of bed: Here’s what it means

After a long and demanding day filled with work commitments and an array of personal responsibilities, many of us arrive home feeling drained and depleted. This is a common experience, but for some, this feeling can escalate into something more debilitating. If you frequently find yourself unable to muster the energy to tackle evening tasks, instead opting to stay in bed or engage in mindless scrolling on your phone, it may be indicative of a condition known as functional freeze. Understanding this phenomenon is crucial, as it can significantly impact one’s daily life and overall well-being.

Functional freeze is a unique mind-body response stemming from stress and overwhelm. Liz Tonudo, a well-regarded professional in the realm of health and wellness, known on social media as the “workout witch,” has dedicated her career to exploring the intricate connection between stress, trauma, and their effects on the body. With a background in psychology, Tonudo has extensively studied the ways in which psychological states can manifest physically, and functional freeze is a compelling example of this interplay.

Tonudo observes that those who experience functional freeze may appear outwardly successful in their professional lives; they can meet deadlines and fulfill daily obligations with apparent ease. However, once these responsibilities have been met, many retreat into isolation, opting for temporary distraction rather than addressing underlying emotional fatigue. This duality can often leave individuals feeling overwhelmed and stuck in a cycle of low energy and emotional disengagement.

Recognizing the Signs of Functional Freeze

Identifying the signs of functional freeze is essential for anyone who may be experiencing its effects. While symptoms can vary among individuals, common indicators include:

• Emotional Numbness: A pervasive sense of detachment from one’s feelings, leading to a reduced ability to experience joy or satisfaction.
• Social Isolation: A withdrawal from social interactions, often resulting in feelings of loneliness and disconnection.
• Dissociation: Frequent detachment from one’s surroundings or self, which can manifest as zoning out during conversations or losing track of time.
• Excessive Screen Time: Spending long hours watching TV or scrolling through social media instead of engaging in more fulfilling activities.
• Sleep Issues: Trouble falling or staying asleep, leading to ongoing exhaustion.
• Unexplained Physical Pain: Experiencing discomfort or pain that doesn’t seem to have a clear cause, which can be linked to emotional and psychological stress.

Understanding and recognizing these signs enables individuals to take proactive steps toward reclaiming their energy and emotional health.

Breaking Free from Functional Freeze

So how does one effectively shift out of a state of functional freeze? According to Tonudo, movement is a vital element in this transition. However, it’s important to approach movement mindfully, avoiding high-intensity workouts that could exacerbate feelings of overwhelm. Instead, engaging in somatic exercises—activities that connect the mind and body—can serve as a powerful antidote to functional freeze.

Two effective strategies highlighted by Tonudo include:

• Yoga: This ancient practice emphasizes the union of breath, body, and mind, fostering a heightened awareness of physical sensations. Yoga encourages gentle stretching and relaxation, helping to release tension trapped within the body.
• Breath Work: Simple yet powerful, breath work can reduce anxiety and enhance mental clarity. Techniques such as deep diaphragmatic breathing or rhythmic breathing exercises can help ground individuals, allowing them to regain control over their emotions.
• Dancing: Embracing movement through dance not only provides physical exercise but also allows for emotional expression. Whether alone or with others, dancing can elevate mood and facilitate a sense of freedom.

Integrating these practices into daily life can cultivate a deeper sense of connection to one’s body, making it easier to manage stress and move beyond the freeze response.

Real-Life Examples of Overcoming Functional Freeze

Stories of individuals who have conquered their functional freeze can serve as inspiration for those currently struggling. One such case is that of Sarah, a marketing professional who found herself paralyzed by the demands of her job and personal life. Overwhelmed by constant deadlines and responsibilities, Sarah would often choose to stay under her blankets instead of tackling her chores or engaging with friends. After recognizing her patterns, she reached out to a therapist who encouraged her to explore movement-based therapies.

With the guidance of her therapist, Sarah began to participate in yoga classes and dedicated ten minutes each day to breathing exercises. Within a few weeks, she sensed a shift; her energy levels increased, allowing her to tackle tasks she had long avoided. Eventually, she found joy in reconnecting with friends and even took up a salsa dance class, which became not only a form of exercise but also a source of social enjoyment. Sarah’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of movement in overcoming the inertia of functional freeze.

A Community Approach to Healing

Addressing functional freeze doesn’t have to be an isolated endeavor. Engaging with a community, whether through exercise classes, support groups, or even online forums, can provide much-needed encouragement and accountability. When individuals share their experiences, they create a supportive environment that fosters understanding and healing. Social connections play a vital role in emotional well-being, and participating in activities alongside others can reduce feelings of isolation.

Tonudo’s insights remind us that while the modern world can be overwhelming, we have the tools at our disposal to navigate our emotional and physical landscapes. By recognizing the signs of functional freeze and incorporating thoughtful movement practices into our lives, we can break free from the cycle of inactivity and rediscover the vibrant energy that lies within each of us.