Will Smith was Flooded! The Science Behind “The SLAP”

When I got back from my retreat, I caught up on some of the world news and events that I missed - including the now infamous slap that Will Smith gave Chris Rock at the Oscars. Will losing his mind for a moment is a fantastic example of the irrational actions we ALL can take when we become flooded. Yup, you are just like Will…so stop judging him and look in the mirror. What is the worst thing YOU’VE ever done when you got triggered? Today, I’m talking all about flooding - that fight-or-flight feeling we all experience at certain times. But most of us do it behind closed doors, and avoid the ugly backlash that comes with being in the public eye. I share my definition of flooding, some examples of common scenarios that may cause flooding, how to recognize when you are flooded, what to do in these situations, and more. I hope this episode reminds you to watch the judgment that you pass on to others and reflect on the times in your life that you have been flooded. When was the last time that you were cool, calm, and collected until something suddenly happened - maybe you thought someone insulted your wife - to cause feelings of distress or danger? Our body believes what our brain tells us and in these moments of being triggered, we either fight, flee, or freeze. This bodily state is one that I like to call being “flooded”. Think back and reflect on moments in past situations in relationships that you became flooded. How did you react and what actions did you end up taking? And would you like to be judged by a billion people for your worst mistakes? In This Episode, You Will Learn: Why the Will Smith incident is a perfect example of flooding (02:21) My definition of flooding and a few examples that we can all relate to (4:12) Why we might take regrettable action - in other words, screw up badly - when our body is flooded (09:50) How to recognize when you are flooded while in an argument with your romantic partner (15:52) Why it’s important to understand whether your own reaction to distress is to fight, flight, or freeze (18:15) Why everybody should stop passing judgment or criticism on Will’s reaction to Chris Rock and work on your own damn self (23:30) This week’s LoveByte (29:14) Q&A: What does it mean to be flooded with emotions? Flooding is the layman's term for Diffuse Physiological Arousal. This is when you get so stressed during an argument that your body goes into fight, flight, or freeze. In this state, you are unable to make rational decisions or actions. A great example of this is Will Smith slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars.  How can I recognize when I am flooded with emotions? Next time you are in a stressful situation or conversation, check your pulse. If your heart rate is above 100 beats a minute then you are flooded and that means you are not entirely rational. How long does it take to get back to a calmer state after an argument? After the cortisol and adrenaline are in our bloodstream, it takes 20-30 minutes for your body to unflood itself. Want more of Cheryl talking about Will’s Slap? Watch this video now - https://youtu.be/syZPGseAArA Resources mentioned: Become Passion Testimonials Become Passion waitlist Let’s Connect! About Me Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.