In an often discontented world, cultivating contentment through somatic awareness and vagus nerve activation is a skill every leader can develop. By practicing these techniques, you’ll not only foster a calm, composed presence for yourself but also positively impact your team’s ability to navigate challenges with confidence and clarity.

In high-pressure situations, fear can activate the body’s threat response. Franklin D. Roosevelt famously captured this truth in 1933 when he said, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” When fear kicks in, it activates the brain’s amygdala, triggering the fight-flight-or-freeze response and releasing stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. While these responses are helpful for immediate survival, they’re not built for long-term well-being or success.