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Polyvagal Theory 2 Page Handout

Polyvagal theory, created by Dr. Stephen Porges, explains how the autonomic nervous system regulates our emotional and physiological responses to stress and social interactions. It highlights the roles of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, particularly the ventral vagal pathway for social engagement and the dorsal vagal pathway for shutdown responses. The document also outlines self-regulation strategies to shift from stress to social connection, including mindfulness, physical activity, and fostering positive social interactions.

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haileyneises
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347 views2 pages

Polyvagal Theory 2 Page Handout

Polyvagal theory, created by Dr. Stephen Porges, explains how the autonomic nervous system regulates our emotional and physiological responses to stress and social interactions. It highlights the roles of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, particularly the ventral vagal pathway for social engagement and the dorsal vagal pathway for shutdown responses. The document also outlines self-regulation strategies to shift from stress to social connection, including mindfulness, physical activity, and fostering positive social interactions.

Uploaded by

haileyneises
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Polyvagal Theory

Polyvagal theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, explains the autonomic


nervous system's (ANS) role in regulating our physiological and emotional
states, particularly in response to stress and social interactions.

The ANS consists of two branches: the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and
the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS). The PNS divides into two
components: the ventral vagal pathway, which is associated with social
engagement and connection, and the dorsal vagal pathway, which is linked to
shutdown and conservation behaviors.

AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM

PARASYMPATHETIC
SYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM
NERVOUS SYSTEM

SYMPATHETIC DORSAL VAGAL VENTRAL VAGAL


Fight or Flight Shutdown Safe and Social
In response to perceived In situations of extreme When we feel safe and
threat or danger, the threat, the PNS induces a connected, the VVC is
sympathetic nervous state of freeze. This engaged. This state
system activates to involves immobilization, allows for optimal social
prepare the body for dissociation, or interaction,
fight or flight. This is an shutdown, serving as a communication, and
adaptive response to protective mechanism in collaboration. The body is
deal with challenges and the face of perceived calm, and there's a sense
stressors. danger. of well-being.

In summary, polyvagal theory provides a framework for understanding the autonomic


nervous system's role in shaping our responses to stress and social interactions, and
gives us valuable insights into developing strategies to shift from states of stress or
shutdown to states of social engagement and connection.
Self-Regulation Strategies

DORSAL Practice grounding


VAGAL exercises, gentle Creating a
movement, and self-
Freeze soothing activities. Personalized Toolkit
Recognize triggers, situations, or
Deep breathing,
SYMPATHETIC stimuli that may activate stress
mindfulness, and
Fight and physical activity to
responses.
Try different self-regulation
Flight release excess energy.
techniques to discover what works
best for you.
VENTRAL Foster positive social Integrate self-regulation practices
VAGAL connections, practice into your daily routine for ongoing
Safe and active listening, engage in stress management.
Social joyful activities.

Body Awareness: Pay attention to physical sensations, especially


signs of tension or relaxation.

Breathing Exercises: Practice deep, slow breathing to activate the


calming effects of the vagus nerve.

Mindfulness and Meditation: Cultivate a present-moment


awareness to regulate emotional responses.

Physical Activity: Engage in regular exercise to release built-up


tension and promote overall well-being.

Social Connection: Prioritize positive social interactions to activate


the ventral vagal state.

Grounding Techniques: Ground yourself in the present moment with


activities like focused attention on the senses.

Establishing Boundaries: Recognize and communicate personal


boundaries to maintain a sense of safety.

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