Wired for Connection: A Polyvagal Podcast

In this episode of “Wired for Connection,” host Travis welcomes Dr. Arielle Schwartz, a clinical psychologist and expert in somatic psychology, to talk about the natural ways to stimulate the vagus nerve for physical, mental, and emotional health. Dr. Schwartz shares her professional journey—beginning with her personal experience with yoga and anxiety—and how this path led to her deep dive into polyvagal theory and natural mind-body therapies for trauma recovery. Together, they discuss accessible, practical vagus nerve stimulation techniques, the importance of self-compassion in healing, and how therapies like yoga, touch, and movement are essential for regulating the nervous system.Natural Vagus Nerve Stimulation Is Accessible to Everyone:Dr. Schwartz emphasizes that while there are technological devices for stimulating the vagus nerve, the most accessible—and often equally effective—methods involve practices like breathwork, yoga, self-massage, and gentle touch. These natural tools are free, always available to us, and can play a pivotal role in trauma recovery.Healing Is Not About ‘Just Calming Down’:Stimulating the vagus nerve isn’t only about down-regulating or calming the nervous system. It’s about increasing awareness of your nervous system state, meeting yourself with compassion, and developing the flexibility to shift between different states—energizing when needed, calming when needed, and, most importantly, beginning to feel safe in all of them.Trauma Recovery Requires Patience and Personalization:Dr. Schwartz encourages meeting yourself or your clients where they are—especially for those who feel disconnected from their bodies due to trauma. Gentle, titrated approaches such as self-applied touch around the face, simple movement, and sensory grounding can help rebuild a positive mind-body relationship. Progress might be slow, and that’s okay; the key is consistency and self-compassion.If you’re interested in learning more, enroll in "Vagus Nerve Stimulation: Natural Neural Exercises to Enhance Emotional & Physical Health" at the Polyvagal Institute. Live classes start online September 9: www.learning.polyvagal.org/courses/Vagus-Nerve-Stimulation-Natural-Neural-Exercises-to-Enhance-Emotional&Physical-HealthCONNECT WITH Polyvagal Institute:WEB: www.polyvagalinstitute.orgInstagram: @polyvagalinstituteLinkedIn: polyvagal-instituteEmail: community@polyvagal.org

In this engaging episode, Dr. Peter Staats—chief medical officer and cofounder of ElectroCore, and a trailblazer in the fields of pain management and neuromodulation—shares his compelling journey and the emerging science that’s reshaping how we approach healing. Rather than relying solely on pharmaceuticals or surgical intervention, Dr. Staats introduces a transformative model centered on neuromodulation: the use of electrical stimulation to influence bodily systems in targeted, noninvasive ways.At the heart of this model is the vagus nerve. Known as a master regulator, it plays a crucial role in managing inflammation, stress responses, and emotional well-being. When the vagus nerve isn’t functioning optimally, the body can exhibit a wide range of symptoms—from migraines and digestive issues to depression and fatigue—making it clear that many of our chronic struggles may stem from nervous system dysregulation rather than isolated organ problems.Learn more about the vagus nerve here: https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/vagusnerveDr. Staats explores both ancient and modern methods of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). From cold exposure and humming to cutting-edge wearable devices, the tools for nervous system regulation are becoming increasingly accessible. Noninvasive VNS is showing promise for conditions such as depression, PTSD, rheumatoid arthritis, and even sleep disorders—with significantly fewer side effects than traditional drug therapies.Whether you’re a therapist, coach, or simply someone seeking more integrative approaches to health, this conversation invites a broader lens on healing—one that honors the body’s innate capacity to regulate and repair when given the right support. Stay curious, stay connected, and keep listening for more grounded insights into the science of connection and wholeness.  CONNECT WITH PVIInstagram: @polyvagalinstituteLinkedIn: polyvagal-instituteEmail: community@polyvagal.org

In this episode of Wired for Connection, BG Mancini, a neuro integrative medicine provider, discusses the intricate relationship between gut health, the nervous system, and emotional well-being with host Travis. BG shares her insights on the impacts of stress on the microbiome and how it can lead to inflammation, affecting both physical and emotional health.3 Key Takeaways: The Brain-Gut Axis: BG emphasizes the critical link between our gut and brain. Stress can erode the microbiome's lining, leading to inflammation that acts as an alarm system. This inflammation can affect brain function and emotional regulation, highlighting the importance of gut health in our overall well-being. Importance of Diversity in Diet: Introducing a variety of fibers and whole foods into our diet can significantly enhance gut health. BG suggests that diversity in what we eat supports a robust microbiome, which in turn aids in better digestion and nutrient absorption, supporting a balanced mental state. Tailored Approaches to Health Improvement: BG introduces the concept of starting small, with manageable changes that can lead to significant health benefits. Whether it's through dietary adjustments, physical activity, or sensory modifications, finding an entry point that suits an individual's current lifestyle is crucial.Explore and become more conscious of your body's signals and start small with integrating healthier habits. Consider checking out BG Mancini’s upcoming course to dive deeper into gut health, emotional resilience, and nervous system function for more tailored guidance.These insights underline the importance of understanding the linkage between our physiological state and our mental health, encouraging a more integrated approach to well-being.CONNECT WITH PVIInstagram: @polyvagalinstituteLinkedIn: polyvagal-instituteEmail: community@polyvagal.org

In this discussion, renowned researcher Stephen Porges and distinguished clinician Deb Dana delve into the foundations of Polyvagal Theory. They explore its transformative impact on understanding trauma, emphasizing the concepts of neuroception and co-regulation. The duo highlights the significance of presence and connection in therapeutic settings, promoting healing both personally and in community. They also share insights on the evolution of the autonomic nervous system and its role in emotional well-being, fostering a collective sense of safety and empowerment.

"Wired for Connection" is a podcast that delves into Polyvagal Theory and the role of the vagus nerve in our autonomic nervous system. Hosted by Travis and produced by the Polyvagal Institute, this podcast brings together experts from various fields such as therapy, psychology, and somatic practices to discuss how our nervous system influences our daily lives and relationships.Here is what to expect: Understanding Polyvagal Theory: The podcast focuses on Polyvagal Theory, which highlights the significance of the autonomic nervous system and the vagus nerve in shifting our states and affecting behaviors and relationships. Diverse Expert Insights: The episodes feature insights from therapists, psychologists, trauma-informed specialists, and more, who are incorporating polyvagal principles to enhance understanding and connection. Fostering Inclusivity and Co-regulation: The aim is to create safe environments where listeners can learn about co-regulation and navigate the human experience together, fostering inclusivity and connectedness. Stay updated on new episodes and polyvagal insights by following the podcast on social media. For inquiries or more information, contact the team at community@polyvagal.org. Thank you for tuning in and joining this journey towards a more connected world.CONNECT WITH PVIInstagram: @polyvagalinstituteLinkedIn: polyvagal-instituteEmail: community@polyvagal.org