Metta Hour with Sharon Salzberg Ep. 267 – Anxiety Series: Deb Dana
Jul 8, 2025
Deb Dana, a clinician and an expert on polyvagal theory, joins to discuss the intricate relationship between our nervous system and anxiety. She delves into the importance of understanding polyvagal theory to navigate trauma and emotional responses. Deb highlights the significance of social connection and co-regulation in fostering resilience, and introduces practical strategies like the 'rhythm of regulation' to manage stress. Listeners gain insights into how mindfulness can reshape narratives around anxiety and promote emotional well-being.
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Polyvagal Theory's Core Insight
- Polyvagal theory reveals how our nervous system shapes human experience and survival.
- Understanding this allows us to better manage how we navigate the world and our relationships.
Reframing Trauma with Nervous System
- A woman reframed her grief through understanding her nervous system's role in trauma.
- This insight relieved her of self-blame and guilt, showing polyvagal theory's transformative power.
Anxiety as Nervous Communication
- Anxiety signals the nervous system is communicating a need or danger.
- Regulating the nervous system (ventral state) helps us be with anxiety without being hijacked by it.
