​Understanding Polyvagal Theory in Calgary
Polyvagal Theory offers a groundbreaking perspective on how our autonomic nervous system influences our emotions, behaviors, and relationships. Central to this theory is the vagus nerve, a key component of the parasympathetic nervous system, which plays a vital role in regulating our physiological state and responses to stress. By understanding the mechanisms of the vagus nerve, we can gain insights into how our bodies react to feelings of safety and danger, and how these reactions affect our overall well-being.​
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Key Principles of Polyvagal Theory
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Autonomic Nervous System Hierarchy: The theory identifies three primary states within our autonomic nervous system:
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Ventral Vagal State: Associated with feelings of safety and social engagement.
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Sympathetic State: Linked to the fight-or-flight response during perceived threats.
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Dorsal Vagal State: Related to shutdown or immobilization in extreme stress situations.​
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Neuroception: This refers to our nervous system's ability to unconsciously detect cues of safety or danger in our environment, influencing our physiological and emotional responses without conscious awareness.​
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Co-Regulation: Emphasizing the importance of social connections, co-regulation involves the mutual regulation of emotional states through relationships, fostering a sense of safety and stability.​
Applications in Therapy
Therapists integrate Polyvagal Theory into their practice to help clients understand and regulate their physiological responses to stress and trauma. By recognizing the body's signals and learning techniques to shift between different autonomic states, individuals can develop greater emotional resilience and improve their capacity for connection and engagement.​
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Enhancing Well-being Through Polyvagal Practices
Incorporating practices that stimulate the vagus nerve can support the regulation of the autonomic nervous system. Techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and gentle movement can promote a state of calm and enhance one's ability to respond adaptively to stress.​
Understanding and applying the principles of Polyvagal Theory can empower individuals to navigate their emotional experiences more effectively, leading to improved mental health and deeper interpersonal relationships.
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How I Can Help Using Polyvagal-Informed Therapy
In my work as a therapist, I use the principles of Polyvagal Theory to help you better understand how your nervous system responds to stress, trauma, and connection. Together, we’ll explore the ways your body signals safety or danger—and how those signals influence your emotions, behaviors, and relationships. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you can begin to notice these patterns without judgment.
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I’ll guide you through gentle, practical techniques to help regulate your nervous system—like breathwork, grounding exercises, and mindful movement—so you can shift from survival states (like anxiety, shutdown, or overwhelm) into a place of calm and connection. As we work together, you’ll begin to build a greater sense of safety within yourself, develop emotional resilience, and strengthen your capacity for connection with others. Healing starts with feeling safe, and I’m here to walk that journey with you.
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