

#3021
Mentioned in 9 episodes
The Polyvagal Theory
Neurophysiological Foundations of Emotions, Attachment, Communication, and Self-regulation
Book • 2011
This book presents the Polyvagal Theory, which was introduced by Stephen W. Porges in 1994.
The theory reworks our understanding of the autonomic nervous system, particularly the parasympathetic nervous system, by dividing it into two distinct branches: the ventral vagal system, which supports social engagement, and the dorsal vagal system, which supports immobilization behaviors.
The theory has significant implications for the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, and autism, and it provides insights into how our autonomic nervous system mediates social engagement, trust, and intimacy.
The book is divided into several parts, covering theoretical principles, biobehavioral regulation during early development, social communication and relationships, and therapeutic and clinical perspectives.
The theory reworks our understanding of the autonomic nervous system, particularly the parasympathetic nervous system, by dividing it into two distinct branches: the ventral vagal system, which supports social engagement, and the dorsal vagal system, which supports immobilization behaviors.
The theory has significant implications for the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, and autism, and it provides insights into how our autonomic nervous system mediates social engagement, trust, and intimacy.
The book is divided into several parts, covering theoretical principles, biobehavioral regulation during early development, social communication and relationships, and therapeutic and clinical perspectives.
Mentioned by


















Mentioned in 9 episodes
Mentioned by 

as a beautiful description of our understanding about the vagus nerve circa 10 years ago.


Andrew Huberman

2,445 snips
Control Your Vagus Nerve to Improve Mood, Alertness & Neuroplasticity
Mentioned by 

as a groundbreaking work that has profoundly changed mental health treatment.


Kirkland Newman

22 snips
62: Dr. Stephen Porges: The Impact of Psychological Trauma on Mental And Physical Health
Recommended by 

, explaining that it offered her something that was missing from her clinical work.


Deb Dana

14 snips
A Polyvagal Primer: The Story of Polyvagal Institute and the Basics of Polyvagal Theory
Mentioned by 

as the creator of the Polyvagal Theory and the Safe and Sound Protocol.


Dave Asprey

The Nervous System Circuitry of Safety, Sound and Gratitude – Stephen Porges : 573
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

when discussing experts whose work integrates well with Dan Siegel's.

Neil Sattin

57: Mastering Mindfulness in Your Relationship - with Dan Siegel
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

as a previous guest on the podcast.

Neil Sattin

125: Developing the "Yes Brain" in Yourself and Your Kids - with Dan Siegel
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

in the context of the polyvagal theory.

Jay Wiles

A Deep Dive Into HRV: How To Use Heart Rate Variability To Optimize Your Sleep, Stress, Recovery, Performance, Nervous System Balance & Much More!
Mentioned by 

, whose study of it heavily influenced his work on addiction treatment.


Michael Barta

201: A Neurological Approach to the Treatment of Addiction with Dr. Michael Barta
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

, who says that Dr. 

is the author.

Holly Blanc Moses


Stephen Porges

Navigating Emotional Storms With Effective Nervous System Regulation for Neurodivergent Kids
Mentioned by 

as a difficult-to-read book on polyvagal theory.


Amelia Nagoski

Polyvagal 101
Mentioned by Shannon to explain the concept of ventral vagal state and its role in shifting from reactivity to calmness.

Lazy or Liberated? The Four of Swords & Eight of Pentacles go to Therapy
Mentioned by Dr. ![undefined]()

when discussing research on how the body keeps score.

Lori Laws

EP. 335: Healing the ADHD–Trauma Burnout Loop with Dr. Lorre Laws