Window of Tolerance – Understanding Your Arousal States

The Window of Tolerance refers to the optimal zone of emotional and physiological arousal in which a person can function effectively, process experiences, and respond to stress in a balanced way. When within this window, we feel grounded, present, and capable of managing life’s challenges. Outside of it, we may experience states of hyperarousal (anxiety, panic, overwhelm) or hypoarousal (numbness, shutdown, disconnection).

What’s Included (Available in A4 and US Letter Sizes):

• Window of Tolerance Handout: A clear and concise overview explaining the concept, signs of being in or out of the window, and how trauma and stress can shift your baseline.

• Window of Tolerance Worksheet: A reflective tool to help individuals identify personal signs of hyper- and hypoarousal, understand their triggers, and map out strategies to return to their optimal zone.

• Self-Care Checklist: A simple but powerful list of grounding and soothing activities to help regulate nervous system responses and maintain emotional balance.