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Polyvagal Theory
Polyvagal Theory was first developed by Stephen Porges in 1994. This theory has helped revolutionize many fields, such as education, parenting, coaching, therapy, and sports (psychology and physiology). The linked resources promote this body-based theory, providing an in-depth understanding of our autonomic nervous system and the three states that we (as humans) can be in at any one time: Ventral Vagal, Sympathetic and Dorsal Vagal. Polyvagal Theory has three organising principles: Hierarchy, Neuroception and Co-Regulation. The advantage of understanding Polyvagal Theory is that it does shift the lens on how we understand and view behaviour in the classroom-a physiological or internal body-response to stress. Central to this stress response is the tenth cranial nerve, Vagus Nerve, which is the longest nerve in the body. It intersects with key organs of the body, such as the heart and lungs.
For a deeper dive into Polyvagal Theory see the links below.
The Polyvagal Theory, first published in 2011, is a seminal text by Stephen Porges. It encapsulates decades of his scientific research which can be applied to treat not just trauma (stored in the body), but also anxiety and depression.
Polyvagal Safety is the second compilation by Stephen Porges-based on his ongoing research, since the publication of The Polyvagal Theory, in 2011. Porges highlights the importance of safety with other people.
Sarah Butler provides a clear description of Polyvagal Theory and how it can support students who are emotionally dysregulated at school.
This is the seminal article by Stephen Porges, developer of Polyvagal Theory, in 1994. It is full of scientific concepts and explanations and may require some repeat reading as a way to understand what has been written!A strong recommendation is this article is read once you have accessed and experienced the other Polyvagal Theory resources outlined on the website.
Deb Dana, in her own right, is a leader in the Polyvagal Theory field and works closely with Stephen Porges. She is a Social Worker Therapist. She has simplified Porges’s work and distilled it into everyday language where most of us can understand!
This video is an excellent introduction to Polyvagal Theory, and includes an explanation of the Autonomic Ladder. Deb Dana provides simplistic explanations that are regularly presented in the video. Notice her calm, melodic voice-very soothing!
This video promotes a Polyvagal lens and provides additional information around trauma and drills-down on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES). It also reinforces the principles of Polyvagal Theory: co-regulation and neuroception.
The physiological sigh is currently the gold standard in breathing techniques. This has been proven in research in neurobiology laboratories in the United States (e.g. Yale, UCLA).
Ben Ahrens, was a semi-professional surfer and then his body shut down, struggling to walk and stand. In this video he provides an additional variation to the Physiological Sigh, involving clicking of fingers and clapping. This variation can be easily applied to the educational environment. His technique is very rhythmic, repetitive, relaxing and easy to perform!
