The atlas of human states

A future-oriented state of apprehension about uncertain threat, blending vigilance with bodily activation.

“Something bad might happen and I may not be able to handle it.”

A present-tense response to clear, imminent threat that mobilizes escape or defense.

“There is danger here, now.”

A high-arousal state arising from blocked goals or perceived injustice, mobilizing approach and confrontation.

“Something unjust or obstructive is happening, and I can act on it.”

A low-arousal response to loss that slows the system and signals a need for support.

“Something valuable is gone or out of reach.”

A bright, expansive state of well-being and appreciation, usually in safe and connected contexts.

“Things are good, and I am part of it.”

A response to vastness that requires accommodation — a shift in mental schemas to take it in.

“This is vast, and I am small in a meaningful way.”

An approach-oriented interest in closing an information gap that feels enjoyable rather than threatening.

“Something here is interesting and knowable.”

A painful self-conscious state in which the whole self feels defective in the eyes of others.

“I am bad — and others can see it.”

A self-conscious response to a specific harmful action, motivating repair.

“I did something that hurt someone, and I can make it right.”

A brief, acute self-conscious state following a minor breach of social expectation.

“I just violated a social expectation, and people noticed.”

The downshift after an anticipated bad outcome doesn't occur or a stressor ends.

“The threat is over. I am safe now.”

An aversive state when goal-directed effort is repeatedly blocked.

“I keep trying and this isn't working.”

Willingness to be in contact with what is, without struggle to change it in this moment.

“This is what is happening. I do not have to fight it right now.”

A low-arousal, parasympathetic baseline in which safety and presence predominate.

“I am safe enough to be here.”

High-arousal anticipation of a desired outcome, mobilizing approach.

“Something good is coming and I want it.”

The extended process of reorganizing life around a profound loss.

“Someone or something essential is gone and the world must be rebuilt.”

A bonded state of care, attachment, and willingness toward another's flourishing.

“This being matters to me; their wellbeing is part of mine.”

A rejection response to things that threaten contamination — physical, social, or moral.

“This is contaminating and must be expelled or avoided.”

A self-conscious positive state arising from achievement consistent with one's values.

“I did something worthwhile and others can see it.”

A state of dissatisfied under-stimulation, where attention can't settle and meaning feels absent.

“Nothing here is engaging me, and I want it to.”