Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson
The Polyvagal Theory and Trauma with Dr. Stephen Porges
Episode guests
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Polyvagal theory emphasizes the influence of our bodily state on our perception and response to the world.
- Understanding the three physiological systems regulated by the autonomic nervous system can help navigate and regulate our responses to different types of threat.
Deep dives
Polyvagal Theory: Understanding the Influence of Our Body on How We Experience the World
Polyvagal theory emphasizes that our bodily state influences our perception and response to the world. When our body feels safe, we view the world as benevolent and engaging. However, when our body is in a state of threat or stress, we interpret the world as threatening. The theory goes beyond the simple stimulus-response model, highlighting the importance of our physiological state in shaping our behaviors and perception. It suggests that our nervous system not only responds to threat but also to signals of safety. Co-regulation with others and cues of safety can down-regulate our stress and anxiety responses, allowing us to feel calm and engage optimistically with the world. Implementing polyvagal theory involves increasing our self-awareness, using tools like slow exhalation and top-down visualizations, and seeking safe, supportive relationships for co-regulation.
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