The interaction between heart rate and stress is guided by the process in which the body communicates information from and to the cardiovascular system . This is called allostasis — the body ’ s adaptive response to stress . Along with respiratory , endocrine , immune , digestive and sensory systems , the cardiovascular system both receives and gives information through allostasis . When we feel stress , our heart rate goes up . Conversely , when we lower our heart rate , we feel less stress .
Allostasis communicates through systems to designate resources , such as hormones , increased heart rate , redirection of blood flow and release of cortisol in handling the stressor confronting us . This process reacts to internal and external environments — situations actual or perceived . That is why we experience worry and excitement in the same way physiologically .
A popular explanation of this process — and tools and apps now found on websites — is the body ’ s sympathetic and parasympathetic response through the vagus nerve and the lens of polyvagal theory . This theory makes it easy for consumers to understand the mind and body connection as we respond to stress , but the science is incomplete and has been refuted in some academic circles . Regardless , it suggests people are looking for tools to address stress through an integrated approach .
Empowering People Through Allogility TM Spa and wellness professionals can help WELLZoomers understand their feelings , such as anxiety , and address them in a rational and effective manner . The process by which our body balances stress can be strengthened and made more flexible . The authors refer to allostasis ’ s agility using the portmanteau allogility TM .
Susan David , Ph . D ., a Harvard Medical School psychologist , explains the power of flexible attunement to our feelings in her book Emotional Agility . Many in the mental and physical health communities assert that experiential learning can change individuals ’ relationship with stressors and build resiliency . Counselors talk about expanding the window of tolerance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems . Similarly , psychologists now have a deeper understanding of neuro and biofeedback , and scientists link sleep and nutrition to resilience . We can now engage in more practices that make us more agile and healthy .
Hence , allogility — as defined — is the ability of body and mind systems to recognize and use stressors effectively to enhance one ’ s well-being . Just as resilience often refers to enduring hardship , we assert that allogility reflects the ability to flexibly adapt to stress .
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