Need for Calm

Periods of calm and recovery are essential for the brain and body to bounce back after stress. Research suggests that during calm, low-arousal states, processes like memory consolidation, immune system activity, and top-down cognitive control (executive functions) get a chance to recuperate (see e.g. Frontiers in Psychology review on stress recovery and cognitive performance). The need for calm may drive us to dial down excessive stimulation, manage our workload, and establish soothing routines or rhythms in daily life. By restoring a state of calm, we improve our emotional self-regulation and allow higher-order thinking (like problem-solving and impulse control) to function more effectively. In short, regularly seeking calm moments helps counteract stress and supports better learning and decision-making.