What is the “Real” Polyvagal Theory? Good question!
There is a virtual circus of misinformation in ‘somatic’ spaces these days. It’s become such a problem that I now try to avoid using the word ‘somatic.’ Sad, but true!
However…
There are certain things around trauma, somatic healing, and nervous system health that are factual, and the polyvagal theory (coined and pioneered by Dr. Stephen Porges) is one of them.
As such, it is vital that this KEYSTONE of nervous system health and healing is taught correctly.
I’ve written and vlogged extensively on it since way before it became a trendy term on the internet (just google ‘polyvagal theory’ + my name and you’ll see), so I won’t say too much more here, except to share this clip from a longer educational ‘lecture’ and Q&A all on chronic pain and illness, which was streamed live on YouTube during a past registration week for SmartBody SmartMind™ (my 12-week program that teaches you how to rewire and regulate your nervous system).
This video will give you a ‘crash course’ on how early adversity and chronic shutdown create dysfunction and illness in the physiology:
An accurate overview of the polyvagal theory (and why it matters) in just over 26 mins.
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Mentions and other resources to complement this video:
➤ The Polyvagal Theory Explained
➤ All THINGS Polyvagal. Plus Q&A with Irene.
➤ The work of Steven W. Porges, PhD
➤ The Two I’s – Integration & Interoception with Irene Lyon
➤ Is it possible to be in fight, flight, and freeze at the same time?
➤ The undeniable link between early childhood stress and chronic illness
➤ The difference between being a victim and identifying yourself as one
➤ Book: “The Trauma Spectrum: Hidden Wounds and Human Resiliency” by Robert Scaer
