what is the gist of the "Eye Movements and Anxiety"

The core idea discussed by Andrew Huberman about "Eye Movements and Anxiety" relates to the effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy in reducing anxiety and the amplitude of the threat reflex through lateralized eye movements. These specific eye movements decrease activation in the amygdala and related circuitries, thereby calming the individual. Despite its efficacy, it's noted that EMDR is particularly beneficial for treating single-event traumas but less so for prolonged traumatic experiences, like a challenging childhood or marriage 1.

Additionally, the discussion touches on evolutionary aspects where forward movement, which naturally involves these lateralized eye movements, tends to suppress fear responses. This is because forward movement and fear usually do not coexist; movement can even generate eye movements that suppress the amygdala's activation, leading to a calmer state 2.