Stephen Porges

Dr. Stephen Porges, the creator of the polyvagal theory, simplifies the theory, discusses the three key states of our body, and explores using polyvagal practices to heal old wounds. They also discuss the importance of safety, regulation, and co-regulation for healing, distinguishing feeling safe vs. being safe, and how healing practices change our perception of the world.

Neuroscientist Stephen Porges and Seth Porges explore how our nervous system determines feelings of safety and connection in their podcast. They discuss the Polyvagal Theory, the role of the vagus nerve in social behavior, and strategies to create a sense of safety in an unsafe world. They also highlight the importance of shifting values, the impact of isolation, and the need for trusted social relationships. Ultimately, they emphasize the significance of feeling safe and secure for an easeful and joyful life.

Dr. Stephen Porges is a pioneering expert in trauma and the originator of Polyvagal Theory. He discusses how trauma is stored in the body, affecting our nervous system and emotional well-being. Listeners learn about techniques to regulate their nervous system, such as breathwork and sound therapy. The conversation dives into the connection between emotional health and social engagement, the role of the vagus nerve in healing, and how environmental influences shape our perceptions. Practical insights for stress resilience and holistic healing are shared.

Join world-renowned neuroscientist Stephen Porges and Safe and Sound Protocol innovator Karen Onderko as they dive into the transformative power of safety in healing. They explore how polyvagal theory reshapes our understanding of trust and emotional connection. Discover the significance of vocal intonation over mere words and the role of the vagus nerve in emotional regulation. With insights on co-regulation, therapeutic sounds, and the impact of bodily sensations, they reveal pathways to self-compassion and societal healing.

Join Dr. Stephen Porges, a distinguished scientist and professor known for his groundbreaking polyvagal theory, as he dives into the complexities of psychological trauma. He explains how our nervous system influences mental health and the importance of the vagus nerve in emotional regulation. Discover the critical role of social engagement in healing and how the pandemic has redefined our connections. Dr. Porges also highlights practical therapeutic applications, emphasizing the need for deeper understanding and holistic approaches in mental health treatment.

Stephen Porges is a pioneering neuroscientist known for the polyvagal theory, while his son Seth Porges is a journalist and science communicator. Together, they dive into how our sense of safety influences health and creativity. They unpack the role of the vagus nerve in emotional communication and discuss innovative strategies to flip your body's safety switch to combat stress and anxiety. The duo emphasizes the importance of nurturing safe environments and strong social connections to enhance well-being and resilience.

According to Dr. Stephen Porges, Polyvagal theory is about the science of safety and the biology of trust. Your physiology impacts your behavior more than you think and when you feel safe, you are better able to connect with others, be bold, and be free to be yourself. In this episode, Dr. Porges and Diana Hill explore everything from how the pandemic re-tuned our nervous systems, to the intersection of ACT and polyvagal theory, chanting, rituals, and religion, and why you should rethink your botox!Related ResourcesGet enhanced show notes for this episodePre-order my upcoming book, Wise Effort: How to Focus Your Genius Energy on What Matters Most, and receive special pre-order bonus gifts.Want to become more psychologically flexible? Take Diana's "Foundations of ACT" course.For Members: Listen to Diana's meditation on safeness and connectionDiana's EventsReserve your spot in Diana's Costa Rica retreat in 2026!See Diana at an upcoming eventConnecting With DianaSubscribe for free on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Leave a 5-star review on Apple so people like you can find the show.Sign up for the free Wise Effort Newsletter.Become a Wise Effort member to support the show.Follow Diana on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Diana’s website.Thanks to the team, Craig and Ashley Hiatt, and Benjamin Gould of Bell & Branch for your beautiful music.Mentioned in this episode:Get on my Wise Effort workshop waitlist! If you are intrigued about Wise Effort or maybe a retreat wise effort in yoga, how we integrate wise effort into the therapy space, go check out drdianahill.com/workshop and get on my wait list. I have a number of events that are gonna be coming up in this coming year, including wise effort and yoga with Elyse, you get to see where all the magic happens, and I would love, love, love for you to be there. So check out my programming and workshops and collaborations at drdianahill.com/workshopWise Effort Workshop Waitlist

Join scientist Stephen Porges, the mind behind Polyvagal Theory, as he uncovers the intricate links between our nervous system and social behavior. Learn how safety and sound can enhance emotional regulation and the surprising effects of gratitude on mental health. Discover the transformative power of music in therapy and the importance of environmental design for well-being. Porges also highlights how non-verbal communication and connection can pave the way for healing and resilience, making complex concepts relatable and impactful.

Discussion with Dr. Stephen Porges & Deb Dana on the essence of Polyvagal Theory, human connection, trauma, & self-regulation. Porges explains societal stress impact on bodily cues. Dana helps trauma survivors navigate warning signs for regulation. Importance of creating safe spaces for connection, overcoming trauma, & collective healing in a traumatized world.

Renowned for founding Polyvagal Theory, Stephen Porges delves into the crucial role of facial expressions in relationships. He explains how misreading expressions can lead to misunderstandings with partners. The conversation explores the interplay between our nervous systems and emotional connections, highlighting co-regulation and its significance in both personal and public interactions. Additionally, Porges discusses the implications of stress on our bodies and how caring for others can impact our health and relationships.