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401: Polyvagal Theory + Feeling Safe With Dr. Stephen Porges

Therapy Chat

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The Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Nervous System: More Than Fight or Flight

The sympathetic and parasympathetic systems are more than just fight or flight and restoration. The ventral vagus branch of the parasympathetic system enables social engagement and cooperation, creating moments of intimacy. When this control is lost, the body optimizes its defenses. The sympathetic system inhibits digestion when activated, while the parasympathetic system shuts down as a last resort. Trauma can manifest in different ways, such as passing out, immobilizing, or defecating. The body smartly titrates sympathetic activity for survival, resulting in freeze or dissociation responses.

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