Polyvagal Theory

What is Polyvagal Theory?

Stephen Porges’ polyvagal theory explains how the autonomic nervous system can be incorporated into therapy so that the nervous system can learn how to regulate itself. The goal is to find ways to befriend the nervous system and move to calmer states.

Porges’ polyvagal (“poly’” meaning many and “vagal” meaning wandering) theory developed out of his experiments with the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is part of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is the part of our nervous system that creates a sense of calm. Prior to Porges’ experiments, the nervous system was seen as two systems that signal different messages — one of them being a more calming and less activating signal and the other one sending alerts that something is off.

Polyvagal theory points out a third nervous system response that Porges calls the social engagement system, which is the part of the nervous system that responds to feelings of safety and connection and helps us feel grounded. This can be experienced when being hugged by a loved one or being comforted by someone.

In life, we experience a range of varying emotions that often coexist with each other. There will be times that we feel safe and times in which we feel activated and uncomfortable. Polyvagal theory suggests that these three systems can be fluid for us and we can move in and out of these different states when the time calls for it.

Our clinicians at Therapy Center of Houston will help you create a greater sense of balance within these systems and learn how to regulate your emotions.