The sensation of getting goosebumps and experiencing an intense tingling feeling when you think of the time you were shocked is likely due to a physiological and psychological response known as the fight-or-flight response.
When you think about a shocking or traumatic experience, your brain might perceive it as a threat, even if the event is in the past. This perception triggers the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for preparing your body for action in response to stress or danger.
Here's how the process typically works:
Memory recall: When you recall the shocking event, your brain brings back the associated memories and emotions linked to the experience.
Activation of the sympathetic nervous system: The brain interprets the memory as a threat, and the sympathetic nervous system is activated. This triggers the release of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol into your bloodstream.
Physical response: The release of stress hormones causes several physiological changes in your body. One of the responses is the contraction of the tiny muscles at the base of your hair follicles, which leads to the appearance of goosebumps on your skin.
Increased alertness: The stress hormones also increase your heart rate, blood pressure, and overall alertness. The tingling feeling you experience could be a result of heightened sensitivity to your body's responses.
This fight-or-flight response is an ancient survival mechanism that prepares your body to deal with potential threats. While it might have been helpful in more dangerous environments in the past, it can sometimes be triggered by memories of past traumas or shocks, leading to an intense physical and emotional reaction.
If you find that these memories cause significant distress or interfere with your daily life, it could be helpful to seek support from a mental health professional. They can help you process and cope with the emotions linked to these memories and develop strategies to manage your stress responses effectively.