Polyvagal Theory Explained Simply

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🔵 CHAPTERS
0:00 Ventral Vagal
0:51 Sympathetic
1:29 Dorsal Vagal
2:04 Neuroception
3:30 The Vagus Nerve
3:51 Polyvagal Theory and Trauma
5:05 Coregulation
6:51 The Pillars of Polyvagal Theory
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#LewisPsychology

[@DanielaRosenrot]

I think my dorsal state developed because of the alcoholism of my mother. She was kind and supportive but also threatened to put me into childrens home, screaming, stomped drunk into my room at night, sometimes took away my phone, laptop cable or room key, feel asleep drunk in the kitchen. She probably still is a functional alcoholic and tends to have tantrums when I don't aswer her text within an hour or two. It can be exhausting and Im so glad that I have my own apartment - lots of time for me in a calm place.

[@LewisPsychology]

I’m sorry to hear what you have been through. Warmest wishes, Teresa.

[@ron1836]

I was threatened with the prospects of being carted off to reside at a children's home as well... What's worse however is I had actually been there not once, but twice before. Basically for nothing more than hating school so bad because of bullying and ignorant pointless norms that I stayed home as much as possible. Often actually being physically ill... Likely due to stress. Though no less real to my young self. I was put on juvenile probation, then later tricked by my officer to come to the office supposedly. And doing so suddenly yanked across the hall to a hearing in family court. My family knew this was what was to happen but also lied to me. They gave me a lawyer who stuttered terribly but was a kind man... The district attorney and the judge mocked and laughed loudly at and because of my lawyers struggles to speak the words necessary to represent my case. Then made a spektical of my mother by making her take the stand and holding up a pencil. Asking her to please name the object. Then saying ",if you know what a pencil is why couldn't you pick one up to write excuses for your son's absences!?" I still remember the embarrassed and failure as a mother look she had on her face as she began to have tears roll down her face. This was about it. And my fate was sealed. I was sentenced to a future court date held in something like 45-60 days. And I was given to the custody of new York state. To be held in a none secure juvenile detention facility atleast until such time as the next court date. Then I was grabbed by two officers and taken from my parents right then and taken to a holding cell room in the rear of the court. Once put in the tiny room I saw I was in there with around 5-6 other kids. Looking severely agitated. One of which was a newly made friend I knew from school. Before long my friend and a couple other kids had enough and began to repetitiously pound on the walls with their fists and chant "fuck judge neno!!". I joined and we got louder and louder as we reassured each other we had each other's backs no matter what they would do to us! And that court, still going on was just on the other side of that wall and we were clearly getting our point across. Of course before much time at all 2-3 extremely angry and threatening officers entered our holding cell. They pushed a few of us around and couple landed on the floor. Then said that's it. This stops right now! The next kid who makes a single sound isn't going to none secure... But to DFY.. this instantly I could tell put a fear into the kids who knew what this meant. And that was that.... This was only 1 day. And a few hour period within that day of the life I experienced when I was only 13 yrs old.... It traumatized me greatly. Once I went back to court I was sent home... But now I saw how the world wanted me dead basically. I knew from then on I was not one of the "normal" people. Because I could never be ok with what they do to kids everyday of every week. And have fun while doing it!! Before long. Maybe 8 months later 1 innocent dumb split second mistake got me criminal charges and I was done for. It felt like a dream. I couldn't believe I could or would ever be sent back to these children's homes! This time much longer and more than one. With recommendation I was permanently taken from my family . All because I was picked on terribly in school and was so upset I was sick thinking about going most days. There is sooo much more to it all. But the point that took this long to arrive at was this. Even after allll that. My father STILL when I returned home the second time would constantly force me into his truck and drive me toward the county building. Being abusive and cruel the whole time. Saying that I am a piece of crap who ruined his life and he was taking me back! Getting rid of me for good, couldn't wait to never have to look at me again!.... He done this so many times I can't recall. All I remember is crying so hard I couldn't breathe each time. While he set there not caring one bit. They wonder how lunatics are made! Shit I didn't even add the story of the 4th grade teacher who was a deranged Vietnam vet. Who built a home made wooden torture chamber in his classroom.... Yeah.... I've seen some shit...nothing but fuckin shit!!! And this was in the mid 1990's.... Can you imagine years before?

[@bohobabie5987]

@@ron1836sending you some energetic kindness✨ I hope you are able to find peace one day are able to make sense of the things that have happened to you.

[@baruta0829]

P

[@greer-lr2lg]

As a recovered alcoholic and mother I would like to apologise to you Daniela.. my own daughter hasn't spoken to me in 8 years..and I have been sober 10 years.. the damage is done..may this apology help you in some small measure to know that the toxicity doesn't belong to you and you were never the issue..never. I will pray for your healing and my daughters ❤🇦🇺🙏

[@slappy8941]

This explains why I feel physically ill around some people, even though they aren't really doing anything to annoy me at the time.

[@ameliaannhouck2670]

THAT HAPPENS TO ME , CAUSE THEY ARE LOW VIBRATIONAL BEINGS AND CASUE THIS ! JUST GET AWAY FROM THEM ASAP

[@larenmunday2568]

Holy mother of the almighty!! So that knot in my stomach and aching feeling in my back and the overwhelming need for physical comfort are actual symptoms of my vagus telling me I'm not safe with certain people! My whole life just made sense. A thousand thank yous xxx

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you so much for your kind words of support. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@user-dg6zy3fs6c]

I am a young male struggling with sexual issues and pelvic floor problems for years. A physical therapist told me I’m stuck in a sympathetic state. I need to learn how to balance my nervous system through polyvagal exercises it sounds like

[@Scorpionwins23]

Amazing. I am a survivor of narcissistic abuse and currently reading The Body Keeps the Score and going down rabbit holes. Today I am learning about the Polyvagal Theory and it's blowing my mind (pun intended!)! I have gone from learning to become regulated and learning how to process my emotions, and now I'm consciously moving into a world of becoming coregulated with others. Videos like this are extremely helpful in putting these pieces together and your explanation is spot on, thank you so much!

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you for your kind words of support. It sounds like you are doing some really good work. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@jackiek4159]

Any advice on someone who is stuck in the freeze response with so many symptoms? 🙏🏻

[@HerrWeberMFT]

@@jackiek4159 You might check out some trauma-releasing exercises, some of which are step-by-step guided videos, with others ones very simple yoga-style exercises such as pushing against a wall while switching foot stances (one in front, one behind). Dr. Levine has helped a lot with an intervention called 'The Power of the Voo.' I know at first it seems very silly, but I ask others to relate the vibrational aspects to music and how it evokes various feelings/sensations within the nervous system. Gregorian chant can have similar effects. Breathing is also crucial, and I enjoy box breathing. I recommend circular breathing (breath through the nose, exhale out the mouth). Remember to be patient with yourself; the process is a journey and not a sprint!

[@nataliesmith-ti7oe]

May I ask what steps you have taken?

[@paullewis9873]

Simply brilliant. I wish every channel was as clear, concise and as informative as yours. Thank you.

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you for your kind words Paul. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@user-oy1fj6vq8f]

I was diagnosed with BPD about 5 years ago. I feel like I am in the state of flight every second of every day but I try to engage in healthy behaviors and I am cautious of my thoughts. This is the first I have heard of this and it makes sense to me. Although I do not have many memories of my childhood my dr’s have mentioned possible trauma. I even have to take medication for night terrors. This “theory” explains a lot. Thank You for sharing.

[@rachelcorson3555]

I’m currently in menopause proper and 3 years period free, I had a bout of covid which seemed to activate anything dormant be it physical or mental. I’m convinced Covid disrupted my vagus nerve which has been amplified by a decline in hormones .Thank you so much

[@philpell9002]

For a trainee counsellor, this has been such an insightful video on Polyvagel Theory. Thank you 🙏🏼

[@LewisPsychology]

That’s great to hear Phil. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@user-rv8po6lt6e]

Your content is brilliant! Your ability to take the complex and make it relatable is so special.

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you for your lovely feedback. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@victoireprudence7659]

totally agree

[@eottoe2001]

Thanks for posting this video. I've come across people referencing this but the explanation of it was not clear. I had quite the childhood, to say the least. I took up yoga, and biking, and learned breathing techniques to handle anxiety but I never knew the mechanism until now. It explains family and friends, too. So thank you again, the skies opened.

[@LewisPsychology]

I'm pleased to hear the video was helpful. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@emcarveth]

This is wonderful - such an amazingly concise and informative explanation of PVT. From one therapist to another, THANK YOU! I am utilizing this to help teach veterinarians and veterinary technicians about co-regulation, and how that can help themselves and their clients!

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you for your kind words of support. It sounds like you are doing some really important work. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@walterjjunior]

You speak so clearly and calmly... I could understand anything with your explanations. Thank you for such a great quality video.

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you for your kind words of support. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@miadodson1938]

I love your videos, they are so easy to understand, watching and learning from them will help me find the right therapist for me, in order to heal from past abuse.

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you for your kind words. I’m so pleased to hear my videos are easy to understand. Wishing you all the best, Teresa.

[@cbbhvjc]

This is definitely the best discussion I have ever heard on this topic, far beyond any others!

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you so much for your kind words. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@elisaw8367]

I agree wholeheartedly

[@Janna773]

Very important point about children and co-regulation with parents or other caregivers.

[@gazkishere4921]

love your communication style, thank you

[@LewisPsychology]

I appreciate that! Thank you. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@loisvella5342]

Thank you for this informative presentation.

[@LewisPsychology]

Glad it was helpful! Best wishes, Teresa.

[@meevee7464]

I recently attended an LI training and I’m trying to better understand this theory. You did a very lovely job in such a short period time! Amazing! Thank you!

[@LewisPsychology]

Glad it was helpful! Best wishes, Teresa.

[@user-hv5en4mu9s]

Thank you, this is the clearest explanation of Polyvagal Theory I have ever listened to. First saw this 'pop up' on my phone and it made me subscribe to your channel and have since watched may 'short' videos of yours which have all been brilliant.

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you so much for your kind words of support. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@melliecrann-gaoth4789]

Thank you for steering us through each video. It is all very clear and helpful

[@LewisPsychology]

Glad you like them! Best wishes, Teresa.

[@naturterapi]

really good explanation - short and succinct

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@brianoconnor1911]

Thanks so much. Currently using this as part of my practice, and it's a simplified breakdown with great examples.

[@LewisPsychology]

That’s great to hear. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@balqiselhanandeh1002]

Thank you for making this video. This is the only video that I have watched that has explained the principles of Polyvagal theory in such a simple and easy to understand manner.

[@LewisPsychology]

That’s great to hear. Thank you for your kind feedback, it means a lot. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@MarisaSim]

This is so clear and simple to understand. Thank you

[@LewisPsychology]

That’s great to hear. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@manuelbrunet6266]

Great and simple explanation with precise examples, thanks for your videos!

[@LewisPsychology]

You're very welcome! Best wishes, Teresa.

[@SkittlesBoris]

Very helpful. Thank you. Simply put, you clear up a lot about the vagus nerve and it's effects on our conscious states and perceptions for me.

[@LewisPsychology]

Glad it was helpful! Best wishes, Teresa.

[@johnparrott8683]

Great content , thank u 😊

[@LewisPsychology]

Glad you liked it! Best wishes, Teresa.

[@johnnycomelately6341]

Well done, great explanation

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you. Best wishes, Teresa

[@hellyripphin8357]

Beautifully explained, thank you. You have a lovely style. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, it is greatly appreciated.

[@LewisPsychology]

Thanks for your kind words of support, greatly appointment. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@angelina8303]

Excellent, simple explanation. Thank you!!!

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@elizap2537]

Such great content presented in a well structured way. A fantastic revision tool. Thanks so much 💯✨

[@LewisPsychology]

That's great to hear ElizaP. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@shaunhayward]

I just encountered a brief mention of this in my CBT group today and wanted to know more. Thank you for a wonderful introduction!

[@LewisPsychology]

Thanks for your support. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@esrathefirst]

I love this video. Very informative. I feel as if I know myself a little better after this.

[@LewisPsychology]

Glad it was helpful! Best wishes, Teresa.

[@DrGammaMindset]

Excellent explanation thank you

[@LewisPsychology]

Glad you liked it. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@gloryrwandalla4625]

You are a blessing Dr. Thank you so much for your contents

[@LewisPsychology]

You are very welcome. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@dmgsoultogetherness6667]

i think if (we) can be aware of our nervous state changing we can pull back from it,but it takes practice and being vigilant which is a bit tricky if we are trying not to be over vigilant

[@mindfulnessinvivo7164]

Oh wow this is a fabulous demonstration

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@Helenmoore65]

So we’ll explained, clear and concise thank you very much 😊

[@LewisPsychology]

Glad it was helpful! Best wishes, Teresa.

[@mirananaim5971]

Excellent video and explanation, thank you 🙏🇱🇧

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you so much Mirana. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@tammyjboudreaux2836]

so well explained. Thank you so much.

[@LewisPsychology]

So nice of you, thank you. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@maddarena]

Thank you so much. This is amazing. I got hooked on your videos :)

[@LewisPsychology]

Thanks for your support and kind words. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@Luuu_Ann]

Дуже цікаво, дякую ❤

[@jazminl.6663]

excelent explication!!! thank you so much!

[@LewisPsychology]

You're very welcome! Best wishes, Teresa.

[@DTM45]

I have a desensitized sense of danger and risk. It takes a lot to scare me. Bad parts of the world, gun man, police, military, drug cartels, none of this can even make me blink.

[@BrennanYoung]

thank you for making such a concise and easily-understood explanation. The fact that this theory involves both _psyche_ and _soma_ (in a feedback loop, no less) appeals to this amateur cyberneticist

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you for your lovely feedback. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@JoseDelacruz-wo7ne]

Amazing ❤

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you! Best wishes, Teresa.

[@ivispark3780]

Excellent explanation! Thank you! Subscribed

[@LewisPsychology]

Thanks for the sub! Best wishes, Teresa.

[@audreydugan9668]

Wow, this was very good, it helped me understand. Thanks.... I need to watch it again :)

[@LewisPsychology]

That’s great to hear. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@Estiallina]

Great explanation! Thank you.

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you for your kind comment. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@tmking7483]

Thankyou Steven Porges

[@patriciaboeckman4470]

This is profound!!!! Thank you

[@LewisPsychology]

That’s great to hear, thank you. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@davidcrawford9026]

wow a therapist actually validating trauma?

[@rynnyoung6232]

So helpful! Thank you!

[@LewisPsychology]

That’s great to hear. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@juliegale3863]

Well explained, thank you.

[@LewisPsychology]

Glad you liked it. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@brandontapan1760]

Wow this video is really helpful in confirming what i learned from class!

[@LewisPsychology]

Glad it was helpful! Best wishes, Teresa.

[@kylescotese]

Very clear thank you!

[@LewisPsychology]

You're welcome! Best wishes, Teresa.

[@juliahardman7819]

put across so simply thanks you

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you for your support. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@christopherhiggins4249]

Thank you for sharing this

[@LewisPsychology]

It's a pleasure. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@yunikaa]

thank you! Very helpful

[@LewisPsychology]

Glad it was helpful! Best wishes, Teresa.

[@HelenA-fd8vl]

Best explanation I have ever heard.

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you so much. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@HelenA-fd8vl]

@@LewisPsychology have u done a video on polyvagal excercises?

[@LewisPsychology]

Not yet. Watch this space …Best wishes, Teresa.

[@rahrahrobbbieee]

Thank you for this video. I have subscribed.

[@LewisPsychology]

Thanks for your support. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@tashenkas]

Thank you! You are great at communicating these concepts so clearly. I've heard and read so many explanations on PVT, but now it finally sits with me. A question: since I live alone, sometimes in evenings I get disregulated and end up processing layers of trauma bit by bit. Is self-delusion or is it possible that I'm co-regulating with myself by using good-enough parent part with my traumatized child part? This after years of building external resources in connections wiht others and experiencing co-regulation, both in therapy and in friendships. Also, I'm therapist in training and when I sit in the therapist chair something magical happens, I'm instantly regulated, grounded and present, and my practice clients report feeling the same with me. Well, I call it magic, but now I know it's really ventral vagal state :)

[@LewisPsychology]

I'm so pleased polyvagal theory now makes sense. Coregulating is really about regulating with another person but you may be re-parenting. I have a video on reparenting here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWqxmJpno66le5Ysi=O4oDil6j4MxzBwth Best wishes, Teresa.

[@arleneportsmouth1263]

😢 I AM Steven. Seeking Ventral Vagal Regulation via other nervous systems to achieve coregulation. Currently existing in a state of threat. 😢

[@carolina6683]

A marvellous explanation, thank you! And - slightly off topic - you have nice eyebrows.

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you so much. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@kharris0465]

My heart rate used to increase when the police got behind me with their lights on every time because I was always driving illegal. Once I stop driving illegal, I never got nervous again 😀😂

[@troythackwray]

Brilliant Video - Thank you :-)

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you so much. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@CYI3ERPUNK]

neat stuff =] ; thank you for sharing Teresa

[@LewisPsychology]

Thanks for watching! Best wishes, Teresa.

[@iemorris3922]

I love your analogy along with the explanation. Very well done.

[@LewisPsychology]

Glad you liked it! Best wishes, Teresa.

[@SnakeAndTurtleQigong]

Thanks very much!

[@LewisPsychology]

You're welcome! Best wishes, Teresa.

[@meadowswta8657]

same car scenario but instead of police its a near miss that activates response but my question is about the release of adrenaline, I don't pretend to have any understanding of what or how but everytime I receive another jolt of adrenaline my bodys becomes less able to deal handel it ans my physical response increases and it has reached a point where I'm basically having a full body spasm, even the normal output the body needs must be held bak, like not alowing natural excitement and other responses like that to stimulus. is this a thing with options. I am just never going to a doc unless I find enough force to make me.

[@fianandamaccoll9585]

Excellent ❤

[@LewisPsychology]

Thanks 😊

[@StephenRicket]

Could vasovagal syncope be linked to this (especially veterans with PTSD / CPTSD)?

[@LewisPsychology]

It’s certainly a shut down response so this wound be dorsal vagal. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@deborahfisher7284]

34yrs had truma and greid tried deal with great video

[@boop7313]

Thankyou. 🥰

[@Star-dj1kw]

❤ excellent 😮

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you 😊

[@ryarya3291]

Hi, I have a question please, when the ambulance passes by, does it activate the sympathetic nervous system and then I find a story that explains my body sensations , or does the thought or story come before the activation of my sympathetic response? Because while listening about the polyvagal theory on another KZbin, I understood that the sympathetic system is activated first, then my brain tries to find a mental explanation for my arousal. Thx for helping

[@LewisPsychology]

Thoughts, sounds, touch, smell or bodily sensations can activate the sympathetic nervous system. Body sensations do not necessarily come first. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@judyjoan8429]

Amazing

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you. 👍🏻

[@deborahfisher7284]

Thanky❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@shinn-tyanwu4155]

Great 😊

[@LewisPsychology]

Thanks 😊

[@edwardcampbell1305]

So would playing a client's favorite (childhood?) game help them open to a more relaxed and socially connected state during sessions?

[@LewisPsychology]

I would focus on tone of voice, eye contact, posture etc. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@janmcleod8198]

Thank you. 💓🇦🇺 5:54

[@nektargirl]

Is it possible to co-regulate with a partner that has caused you repeated trauma in the past (via large betrayals of trust)? Or will that relationship keep you in a dorsal vagal shutdown state?

[@LewisPsychology]

You can’t coregulate with an abusive partner. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@rahrahrobbbieee]

I wake up in that unsafe/unpredictable state on most days. It is exhausting.

[@LewisPsychology]

I’m sorry to hear that. Warm wishes, Teresa.

[@spuddsorathalaigh]

Thanks

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you so much for your kind monetary support. Greatly appreciated 🙏 Best wishes, Teresa.

[@Nonono-qs7im]

Are you suggesting when couples meeting for the first time communicate telepathically or pheromones or what?

[@LewisPsychology]

I’m not suggesting that. I’m talking about neuroception. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@thomasschon]

I am curious about brain function we can't control. I didn't have a problem, but like everyone else, I could get a red face for no reason. It didn't happen often. But after I came home again after attending several Ayahuasca ceremonies in the Amazon jungle, I couldn't get embarrassed anymore. I have managed to fall off the bus and land on my chest without getting a red face. I don't seem to be able to get a red face anymore. Not even when I ought to. Could this have to do with something similar or brain functions that are related to the polyvagal theory?

[@LewisPsychology]

That's very interesting, thanks for sharing. I wouldn't like to make any assumption but your reasoning makes sense. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@hilaryzee4724]

God damn! Thank you!

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you 👍🏻 Best wishes, Teresa.

[@katiehopson1279]

This isn’t a complete representation of the dorsal vagal branch. Yes, it can, in high activation, switch on and take us into a place of “shut down.” It can ALSO be, when supported by ventral vagus activation, helpful for rest, restoration, and regulation. There is such a thing as dorsal rest. In this state, our bodies can allow for integration and healing. It’s not always a bad, “shut down” situation. It’s the body’s natural rest-as-a-means-of-preservation mode. For example, when my body is hormonally affected by my PMDD just before my period, my lower energy is an invitation for me to lean into a slower pace and invite in adequate rest. There’s Dorsal Rest and there’s Dorsal Freeze. Dorsal rest can 100% be experienced from a place of safety in the body. Again, I don’t disagree with any points you made; I’m not arguing these to be inaccurate representations of these branches, just incomplete. And, really, just the dorsal part. I feel you did a solid job with the rest! I just wanted to name that because I feel this is the most commonly missed aspect regarding all things polyvagal theory. Sending love.

[@LewisPsychology]

Thank you for pointing this out, very clearly stated. My video is a 7 minute introduction and obviously every aspect of Polyvagal theory can not be covered in such a short time. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@cardonadarlene4650]

Omg ,i experience this the most scariest thing all u said ,i never ever experience that until my daughter gave birth and i had and ugly intrusive thought 😳 it scare me because my enxyety was high smh

[@melliecrann-gaoth4789]

Thank you for explaining In this story. So good Sarah has a good husband….she does not have a sneaky nasty abusive husband and she is deserving of having a good husband, if she had an abusive husband like many with a mother like hers … it’s a different story and then Sarah by many could be seen to have gravitated to that…. The enormity on the system, my system.

[@ryarya3291]

isn't dorsal vagal state then, the equivalent of freeze response (sympathetics system)?

[@LewisPsychology]

Thanks for your question. Shutdown, or freeze, occurs through the dorsal branch of the vagus nerve. The dorsal vagal branch is part of the parasympathetic nervous system. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@brentbrown5477]

@@LewisPsychology I thought the parasympathetic nervous system regulated the sympathetic system.

[@LewisPsychology]

The parasympathetic system is responsible for the rest and digest response (ventral vagal) but it’s also responsible for the freeze response (dorsal vagal). Best wishes, Teresa.

[@ryarya3291]

@@LewisPsychology So what is the 3rd F of the sympathetic response? Fight, flight and......? Thx again

[@LewisPsychology]

The 3 F's are fight, flight and freeze. Fight and flight is sympathetic. Freeze is actually parasympathetic. I agree that intuitively one would think the freeze response is part of the sympathetic system but it’s actually parasympathetic. I think I’m make a video about the freeze response as I agree it can be a little confusing. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@punkysullivan5538]

I wonder how many people with type 2 Diabetes is a symptom to that long lasting trauma reaction with the nervous system. Nobody can tell me why I'm diabetic and just want to give drugs to treat the symptoms.

[@PraveenSriram]

I am likely to subscribe to your watching this video! 😊

[@LewisPsychology]

That’s great to hear. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@mitseraffej5812]

Now in the latter stages of my life, I and my siblings had truly awful parents. Both were quite intelligent people but completely f#cked up for different reasons, and married each other because no one else would have them. As a child I recall how viscous they were towards each other and it was obvious even to a child that they despised each other. Yet they stuck it out to the end and managed to screw up all their children along the way. All my siblings are alive but I haven’t spoken to them for decades. I feel that I may have learnt something about how not to be a parent from them, and have provided the kids from my second marriage a quiet, gentle and stable home. They were all born and raised in the same house that I still live in with my wife. Kids from my first marriage not quite so fortunate but they are very fond of their stepmom, as she is of them.

[@vnjyothirmait8119]

Which country u r ataying

[@LewisPsychology]

I’m from the UK. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@cardonadarlene4650]

❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@alderoth01]

I guess this is a good system. It makes sense to me. But I feel like I just live that way. Glad this is known in medical terms now.

[@LewisPsychology]

Glad it makes sense. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@pedrom8831]

I’m really trying to make sense of PVT but it seems really contradictory to me. If someone is stuck in freeze or shutdown, according to the PV ladder they need to move through the sympathetic response of their trauma in order to reach ventral. But therapists also stress the importance of getting regulated *before* engaging in trauma work; stabilising first. But according to PVT this would be impossible if they’re stuck in this freeze/dorsal state, because they can’t reach ventral until they’ve processed their trauma. It really baffles me, and seems like a complete paradox.

[@LewisPsychology]

You start with establishing safety then move up the ladder. My video on the freeze response will explain in much more detail: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b3iVgoimfaqroM0si=HD8BMPh9xJ04-Sv_. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@pedrom8831]

Thank you for responding, and so quickly. I watched the video, but I think I’m missing something very obvious. I’ve read around a fair bit of Porges and Deb Dana, but the whole model doesn’t make sense at all, to my mind. This is my confusion. How can someone start at the top of the ladder (safety) if they’re stuck near the bottom (freeze/shutdown)?

[@pedrom8831]

Sorry, my KZbin just went a bit mad and flooded through loads of duplicate replies. I’ve hopefully deleted them

[@LewisPsychology]

Have a look at my videos on the freeze response and the window of tolerance as they go much deeper. Best wishes, Teresa.

[@philipholding]

But neuroception is different for everyone due to life's conditioning processes and genetic variability. Everyone's autonomic system is different. Though neuroplasticity, the autonomic system can also be better regulated. Otherwise psychotherapy would be pointless.