Hollistic Health Exam 2 (not complete)

Vagus Nerve

A cranial nerve that plays an important role in autonomic control of the heart, lungs, and digestive tract.

Polyvagal Theory

A theory that explains how the vagus nerve influences our social behavior and emotional regulation.

Dorsal Vagal System

A branch of the vagus nerve that connects to the body’s internal organs such as the stomach and intestines, promoting a state of calm.

Ventral Vagal System

A part of the vagus nerve that supports social engagement and safety by regulating heart rate and facilitating connection with others.

Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS)

Part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for the body's fight-or-flight response during perceived threats.

Co-Regulation

The process by which two people regulate each other's emotions through nonverbal cues like touch and facial expressions.

Neuroception

The subconscious detection of safety or danger in the environment.

Low Vagal Tone

A condition associated with stress and trauma, indicating less effective functioning of the vagus nerve.

Diaphragmatic Breathing

A breathing technique that focuses on fully engaging the diaphragm to increase lung capacity and reduce stress.

Heart Rate Variability (HRV)

The fluctuation in time intervals between heartbeats, serving as an indicator of autonomic nervous system regulation.

Heart-Focused Breathing

A technique that involves focusing attention on the heart area to promote emotional well-being and relaxation.

Instant Coherence Technique

A strategy that combines heart-focused breathing with the generation of positive feelings for inner balance.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)

A structured program that helps individuals identify and replace thoughts and behaviors that cause or worsen sleep problems.

Spiritual Journey

The personal exploration and development of one's beliefs and relationship with the divine.

Obedience

The act of following rules or commands, often within a religious or community context.

Dissent

The expression of opinions that differ from those commonly or officially held, especially in a religious context.

Divine

Of, from, or like God or a god; often associated with goodness and holiness.

Compassion

Sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others.

Faith Tradition

A specific set of beliefs and practices that define a particular religious group.

Spiritual Adulting

Taking responsibility for your own faith and spiritual journey instead of relying on others.

Plurality in Religion

The acknowledgment and acceptance of multiple religious beliefs and practices.

The Divine Within

The belief that divinity exists within all people, as reflected in various religious doctrines.

Lovingkindness

The quality of being friendly and considerate; often regarded as a fundamental principle in ethical conduct.

General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS)

The three-stage response to stress identified by Hans Selye, including alarm, resistance, and exhaustion.

Eustress

Positive stress that can motivate and enhance performance.

Distress

Negative stress that can lead to anxiety, health issues, and decreased performance.

Psychoneuroimmunology

The study of the interaction between the mind, the central nervous system, and the immune system, and their impact on health.

Sympathetic Nervous System

The part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for the body's 'fight or flight' response.

Adrenaline

A hormone released by the adrenal glands in response to stress, increasing heart rate and energy.

Cortisol

The 'stress hormone' produced by the adrenal gland, involved in regulating metabolism and the immune response.

Flow State

A mental state of complete absorption and focus in an activity, often resulting in high performance.

PERMA Model

A framework for well-being, proposed by Martin Seligman, consisting of Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment.

Progressive Muscular Relaxation

A technique for reducing stress by systematically tensing and relaxing muscle groups.

Stages of Stress Response

1. Alarm Reaction, 2. Stage of Resistance, 3. Stage of Exhaustion.

Stress Reduction Measures

Techniques aimed at managing stress, such as exercise, meditation, or therapy.

Physiological Response to Stress

Physical changes in the body due to stress, like increased heart rate, muscle tension, and immune suppression.

Happy Place

A personally identified environment or mental state that induces feelings of joy and comfort.

Creativity

The ability to generate new ideas or concepts, often enhanced by a supportive emotional state.

Negative Effects of Stress

Common emotional and behavioral impacts such as irritability, anxiety, poor work performance, and health issues.

Self-assessment of Stress

Evaluating personal levels of stress and its effects on well-being, often including physical and emotional symptoms.

Mindfulness

A practice that helps cultivate awareness of the present moment, often used for stress reduction.

Burnout

A state of chronic stress characterized by emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion.

Relaxation Techniques

Methods used to decrease stress, including deep breathing, yoga, and meditation.

Adaptation Syndrome

The body's physiological processes in response to stress, promoting adaptation to various stressors.

General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS)

A model developed by Dr. Hans Seyle describing three stages of stress response: Alarm Reaction, Stage of Resistance, and Stage of Exhaustion.

Eustress

Positive stress that can enhance performance.

Distress

Negative stress that can lead to harmful effects.

Acute Stress

Short-term stress response.

Chronic Stress

Long-term stress response that can have detrimental effects.

Sympathetic Nervous System

Part of the autonomic nervous system that triggers the body's fight or flight response.

Hormones released during stress

Epinephrine, Norepinephrine, and Cortisol.

PERMA Model

A model by Martin Seligman that stands for Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment.

Zone of Proximal Development

A concept by Lev Vygotsky that refers to the range of tasks that a learner can perform with guidance but not alone.

Stress Reduction Strategies

Techniques such as breathing techniques, meditation, exercise, and imagery to lower stress.

Physical Effects of Stress

Includes increased heart rate, high blood pressure, insomnia, fatigue, and muscle tension.

Intellectual Effects of Stress

Includes forgetfulness, poor concentration, reduced creativity, and impaired judgment.

Work-Related Effects of Stress

Includes increased lateness, low morale, resistance to change, and decreased work quality.