In the therapy world, we have a concept called the “Window of Tolerance.” Therapists will often refer to this concept when talking about the zone in which someone is able to function effectively. Above or below that “window,” refers to dysregulation- fight flight or freeze mode. Above the window is hyper-arousal and below the window is hypo-arousal. This concept helps us better understand our emotional states.
It’s been on my heart recently when using this with clients, the connection between our nervous system regulation, and the Christian faith. More specifically, the song “Still Waters (Psalm 23),” by Leanna Crawford comes to mind. The lyrics and themes of her song can be mapped directly to the three states of the window of tolerance.
In the “optimal zone,” or the window of tolerance, we’re walking in peace, the body feels safe, relaxed, and heart rate slows. This is an anchoring zone. The chorus declares “He leads me by still waters ’til my fears are gone… I know by Your still waters I’m safe.” We can think of our window of tolerance being His still waters. It is there we are safe.
“Above the window,” or hyper-arousal, is when the body is stressed and goes into fight or flight mode. Crawford opens her song with advice from her 103-year-old aunt, stating “Write Scripture on your heart for when you need it, ‘cause anxiety hates Psalm 23.” When a person is in the hyper-arousal state, the body experiences panic, racing thoughts, anger, etc. It’s as if the brain’s emotional center hijacks the logic. Relating it to this song, Crawford provides a clear strategy to use during this time: “Just say it to yourself ’til you believe it,” referring to repeating scripture, or Psalm 23. This can serve as a cognitive grounding practice.
Lastly, in the hypo-arousal state, or “below the window,” the body goes into shut down or freeze mode. It can feel as if you are in an isolated dark valley. Psalm 23 reminds us that the “still waters,” of God’s presence are accessible to us even in the lowest state. We don’t have to muster up the energy to climb out of the valley on our own. In the bridge of the song, Crawford sings “Still waters run through any valley I could find… Your word has been true in every season of my life.”
A Psalm Of David.
23
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
3 He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for his name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.