By Nina Haase
In today’s world, rapid shifts in global trade, fraying international collaboration, and uncertain diplomacy aren’t just news headlines—they are sources of profound, crisis-level stress. Many of us aren’t simply dealing with “daily stress” anymore; we are living in outright crisis mode. These sweeping global changes add immense pressure, forcing many of us into survival mindsets that make creative problem-solving and long-term planning even more challenging.
It is increasingly recognized—and scientifically documented—that behavioural change at every level, from individuals to policymakers and industry leaders, is essential to drive the systemic transformation needed for climate action and for addressing the broader societal challenges of our times. But what makes meaningful change so difficult?
Why do we struggle to shift to healthier lifestyles that also happen to be more sustainable or adopt innovative solutions, even when what’s at stake is a livable world for the next generation and the global context demands rapid and smart adaptation? Why do decision-makers often default to safe, short-term fixes rather than embracing the bold changes necessary for true transformation?
Recent neuroscientific insights offer a clue: when we are in a balanced state, we feel secure and connected. Our minds become open to new possibilities; we think long-term and can see opportunities in challenges. Curiosity, and innovative spirit flourish and we can connect deeply and emphatically with others and collaborate. This is exactly what the challenges of rapid global change demand. Yet, in crisis mode, our bodies react as if we were in immediate danger. We become hyper-vigilant; our focus becomes very short-term as it narrows to immediate threats. Our creative capacities are sidelined. Relationships become transactional focused on individual gain as we are not capable of connection or empathy in this state. This reactive state is understandable, but it stands in stark contrast to the fast, smart adaptation required to navigate today's global uncertainties.
The irony is unmistakable. The very stress induced by rapid shifts in global trade and diplomatic tensions can inhibit the innovative thinking needed to steer our societies toward a more sustainable and balanced future. While these external crises demand agile and intelligent responses, the stress they generate often keeps us locked in survival mode—making it harder to see the broader picture, to think long-term and collaborate to embrace change.
When we engage in practices like meditation, yoga, exercise, or any mindful movement—from dance to prayer—we help our nervous system return to homeostasis. Over time, these practices strengthen our resilience, expand our window of tolerance, and restore our ability to think broadly. In a world where crisis-driven stress narrows our focus and stifles creativity and gets in the way of collaboration cultivating a balanced nervous system is more than a personal benefit—it’s a strategic necessity.
I’ve experienced this paradox personally. For decades, my regular yoga and mindfulness practices have not only helped me manage personal stress but have also empowered me to make life choices that once seemed unthinkable—like moving closer to nature or reimagining my career for a more balanced life.
Today, as the world faces even more turbulent shifts, that inner balance is crucial. It allows us to respond to global challenges with clarity, resilience, and innovative spirit—even when the pressure to react immediately is overwhelming.
Through practices that bring us back to balance, we not only foster personal well-being but also unlock the creative and resilient capacities needed to confront and transform the challenges of our rapidly changing world. In an era marked by global crises and constant pressure, taking the time to slow down and nurture our inner peace is not merely beneficial—it’s essential for our collective growth and dare I say survival as a species.
Are you ready for a self-experiment to experience the contrast between a balanced state and crisis-mode stress?
Grab a pen and paper, find a comfortable seat, and close your eyes. Take a few deep breaths until you feel your body relax. Now, recall a moment when you felt threatened or overwhelmed —immerse yourself in that memory, engaging all your senses until you feel as if you’re back in that moment. Where were you? Who were you with? What were you doing?
Open your eyes and reflect: • How do you feel now in your body and mind?• How does the world feel to you?• How do you perceive others?• How do you perceive your place in the world?
Summarize your state of being in one word or sentence.
Now, repeat the exercise—this time, recall a happy moment in your life in vivid detail. Engage with that memory fully, then answer the same questions. Now how do you feel?
Finally, stand up, shake your body, or put on some uplifting music and dance. Let your body release the built-up tension and then reflect on the differences between the state you were in when remembering the threatening event and that after immersing yourself in a positive memory and moving your body.
Please share your experience and thoughts in the comments below. We'd love to hear from you.
About the author:
Nina Haase brings over 20 years of expertise in sustainable development and conservation, complemented by a decade of teaching yoga and mindfulness—two passions she is now uniting to build a future worth living.
As the founder of "NGO Power Mamas – Changing the World Without Burning Out", Nina is building a vibrant community of pioneering NGO mothers dedicated to balancing diverse roles, championing transformative change, and thriving with authenticity.
Five years ago, driven by a desire to live in closer harmony with nature and her family’s values, she relocated to northern Spain. She’s also the proud mother of an opinionated pre-teen.
You can contact her on miradasnhgmail.com
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