In today’s chaotic world, where government overreach and inflation loom large, many find themselves drained by the day’s demands. This exhaustion is not merely fatigue; it may indicate a troubling state of “functional freeze,” a mind-body response that undermines personal responsibility and productivity.
Functional freeze manifests as decision paralysis and excessive distraction, with many opting to scroll through social media instead of addressing pressing tasks. This symptom speaks to a broader societal issue—an environment that promotes dependency over self-sufficiency. As Liz Tenuto, known as “The Workout Witch,” notes, people excel in their roles by day only to collapse into inertia at night, often stifled by the weight of external pressures.
Tenuto, with her background in psychology, observes that this phenomenon is prevalent among those striving to meet societal expectations, while the emotional numbness that follows is a stark contrast to traditional values of resilience and self-reliance.
10 signs you may be in a state of functional freeze
The signs of functional freeze are insidious. Many who experience this state may outwardly succeed while feeling utterly disconnected from their own lives. They become trapped in a cycle of self-isolation and endless consumption of digital fleetingness, a result of societal pressures that encourage escapism rather than personal growth.
According to Tenuto, some indicators include:
- Feeling emotionally numb
- Being unable to cry
- Self-isolating and no longer feeling social
- Frequent disassociation
- Excessive social media use
- Spending too much time watching TV
- Using substances or drinking alcohol to feel numb
- Having sleep issues or feeling constantly exhausted
- Struggling with unexplained gut issues
- Experiencing physical pain without a clear cause
‘Movement is the best way to come out of functional freeze’
Emerging from functional freeze—what experts call “thawing”—is a critical process. Tenuto asserts that movement is the antidote, a principle that underscores the virtue of taking personal initiative in reclaiming one’s life.
However, it is vital not to overwhelm oneself with grueling routines. Gentle somatic exercises can guide individuals from the depths of inertia. These practices involve slow, mindful movements, highlighting the importance of being in tune with one’s body rather than succumbing to a culture obsessed with appearance and achievement.
Activities like yoga, breathwork, and dance serve as constructive outlets that align physical health with mental clarity. Tenuto emphasizes the value of small, purposeful movements to stimulate energy—an essential step for anyone seeking to break free from the shackles of modern stress.
Somatic exercises really help get you out of fight, flight or freeze.
Liz Tenuto
“The Workout Witch”
For those entrenched in functional freeze, the clarity found in movement fosters personal agency and reinforces the belief in self-determination. Tenuto’s teachings, which include simple techniques like stimulating the vagus nerve through minor physical adjustments, advocate for resilience against the chaos that pervades many lives.
Moreover, a change of scenery—like a brisk walk—can aid one’s emotional processing. It is a reminder of the necessity of engaging with the world rather than cocooning oneself in isolation.
However, Tenuto wisely advises against meditation for those in this state, suggesting that stillness may exacerbate the freeze. This underscores a broader call to action: movement, both physically and mentally, is essential for overcoming the challenges posed by contemporary society.
Are you ready to buy a house? Take Smarter by CNBC Make It’s new online course How to Buy Your First Home. Expert instructors will help you weigh the cost of renting vs. buying, financially prepare, and confidently navigate every step of the process—from mortgage basics to closing the deal. Sign up today and use coupon code EARLYBIRD for an introductory discount of 30% off $97 (+taxes and fees) through July 15, 2025.
Plus, sign up for CNBC Make It’s newsletter to get tips and tricks for success at work, with money and in life, and request to join our exclusive community on LinkedIn to connect with experts and peers.
