The Polyvagal Theory. Explained.

I got a geeky science vlog for you today on the polyvagal theory. I’ve wanted to write about this for a while. I’ve even debated turning this into a long form article, but to be blunt, the information is pretty cut and dry, granted you get the basics correct and don’t leave out sub-branches of the vagus nerve!!, which makes ALL the difference in the world when it comes to healing trauma.
You’ll see what I mean when you get into this special vlog.
Geeky Fact:
I looked up the definition of ‘theory’ before I recorded this vlog because the term ‘theory’ sounds as if it is isn’t fact, but more so, an idea, and this is simply NOT true when it comes to the work Dr. Stephen Porges ‘stumbled’ across and has devoted his scientific career to.
According to the Merriam Webster online dictionary, a theory can be defined as:
* A plausible or scientifically acceptable general principle or body of principles offered to explain phenomena
* The general or abstract principles of a body of fact, a science, or an art
* The analysis of a set of facts in their relation to one another
Why I am taking a little time schooling you on the definitions of the word ‘theory’?
Because there are certain things around healing trauma and nervous system health that are factual and this is one of them.
Which means that if you’re someone who wants to see the paradigm change when it comes to healing trauma and human potential, then you’ll be happy to know the polyvagal theory backs many pieces of research related to the new traumatology and healing at the neurophysiology (nervous system) level.
In case you are interested, here are two studies that connect to the polyvagal theory are. One is the Adverse Childhood Experiences Study, which shows the staggering connections between unresolved early trauma early and the onset of adult chronic illness, both mental and physical. Another is Dr. Michael Meaney’s work with rat pups that demonstrates the importance of nurturing the nervous system early in life so that good life ensues.
I hope you take some time to watch me breakdown this theory and the intricacies of your wandering vagus nerve so you can become truly trauma-informed.
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Resources I Mention In The Vlog:
► Get to know your many nervous systems.
• [Trauma Tips #2] Get t...
► What to do when you have unresolved trauma: two types of orienting
• What do you do when yo...
► What the heck is orienting? A Q&A
• What the heck is orien...
► How to create a healthy human being starts here:
• How to create a health...
► The ACE Study
www.cdc.gov/vi...
► Michael Meaney's Research
www.sciencemag...
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Thank you for being here!
1. Leave a comment and let me know how this video impacted you. Feel free to leave a question (my team answers them each week!)
2. To get more nervous system health resources, plus learn more about me and my credentials, plus the many ways you can work with me at the practical level, head to my website: irenelyon.com
3. Follow me on social here:
Instagram: / irenelyon
Facebook: / lyonirene
LinkedIn: / irenelyon
SoundCloud: / irenelyon
4. GOT QUESTIONS? Send an email to: [e-mail]
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Please know that…
The statements on this KZbin channel or in videos are simply opinion. Content presented or posted on this channel is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment or a professional therapeutic relationship. Content presented or posted is intended to provide general health information for educational purposes only and you should contact the appropriate healthcare professional before relying on any such information.
My website is a wealth of free resources and information on how to start this work, so here it is one more time: irenelyon.com

[@CoryWillowTree]

I am a mental health therapist and I am considering sharing this with young adult clients who seek to learn more about themselves. Irene, I very much appreciate your cadence, body language expression (excellent demos for visual learners) and gentle yet authoritative language. Trauma recovery is so important in my work. My goal is to offer others compassion and I look for compassionate educators like yourself whose goal is to aid in the healing of trauma. The last thing I ever want is for people to become re-traumatized by the language, tone, and information in videos, books and other resources I find to share. Thank you for your kind demeanor, I can tell how much knowledge you have and how much compassion and kindness you possess.

[@teamlyon3109]

Hi Cory, Seth here from Team Lyon. Thanks so much for your lovely comments and for sharing!

[@dollyjohn546]

Lots of gratitude from India 🙏

[@Ladidasana]

Cory I couldn’t have said it better! Agreed. I am healing and learning so much empowering information from Irene. Understanding is a big part of healing.

[@PURPLEHAZE30000]

I hope you do share it. When I was young it would have helped me. Knowledge is never a waste. I'm an RN and now a patient in crisis without a therapist . Having tools like this especially now in my 60s is better late than never but I hope young people pay attention too and other therapists can teach them. The other channel that I learn a lot from is CTAD with Mike LLoyd, well spoken, short easy videos for patients and therapists.

[@cinziasevignani]

@@PURPLEHAZE30000 yes, very good video. Better late than never. Many of us still need it.

[@MayaLove1976]

It’s difficult for social engagement when you don’t feel safe around others. I’ve got CPTSD and I can only self-regulate alone but often shut down after being in public or have a stress response.

[@IreneLyon]

@MelanieWilliams1976, Jen here from Irene's Team. For sure social engagement can be difficult for those of us with a history of trauma. That's the case for many of us who are drawn to this work. This nervous system work can be a gentle and effective way to grow access to the physiology that supports social engagement. I'll link to two videos that come to mind in case you want to check them out. Breaking through fear via somatic self-touch. Patti's SBSM Success Story - kzbin.info/www/bejne/p3bXXmppepplps0 Four Ways to Spark Up Social Engagement without Socializing - irenelyon.com/2020/06/14/four-ways-to-spark-up-our-social-engagement-nervous-system-without-socializing/

[@battlehymnoftheempath3610]

I love your channel and I am a victim of child abuse. I feel so tired of being a victim and feeling at the whim of my environment. I feel so angry about what was done to me and spend too much time feeling angry at people. I am trying to improve but then I feel like " why should I even be doing this?" But then I realize that this happened to me because I am meant to be healthy. I love your approach because I am a science person. I love the depth and research you bring to this issue. I feel like you are truly helping people and not just stating the statistics on how traumatized people are damaged full stop.I feel like I can take notes on your videos. Your fixing the problem.

[@teamlyon3109]

Hi Battle Hymn of the Empath, Seth here from team Lyon. I'm so glad this was helpful for you and that you are getting so much from Irene's videos. Yes, it is never too late to heal what has happened to us! Thanks for being here.

[@tamrajaye2645]

As a practitioner addicted to learning, I really NEED all that background complex information to understand properly. It's just my learning style. Thank you xx

[@joolsjeffery3939]

Me too!

[@Thankful305]

WOW! You are a teacher. You speak slowly, articulate and repeat. I just learned something wonderful this morning and want to know more ~ Thank you!

[@teamlyon3109]

Hi Thank-full, great to hear that you learned something wonderful! Irene has lots of videos and writings about working with the nervous system to heal trauma. I encourage you to check them out. - Jen from Team Lyon.

[@patriciajohn8196]

Funny, I have to speed her videos up to 1.5x😂. Can't please everyone, all the time😊

[@knowlittle65]

I appreciate people like you who search,learn, and teach others. Thanks for sharing.

[@MeditateonYahsWord]

Hello Ms Irene, I just recently took a Dissociative Experiences Scale II a self assessment tool test.. I've for years tried to determine what is wrong with me and I keep leaning towards the same, Dissociative Identity Disorder (MPD) guess we can call it, diagnosis. I won't even attempt to use appropriate terminology as I am not in the medical field but I am trying to heal. I can't afford a therapist but I understood every word you said today. I just wanted to thank you for using highly visual descriptive body language and for keeping eye contact, I really felt like you were right in front of me. I understand how this mental disorder has interfered with my job as a jewelry consultant and finally had to quit when I couldn't recognize faces as some would approached me to pick up their order a week after selling them an expensive piece of jewelry. Mind you I would engage with them for an hour on their purchase. I pretended all that time and it became too much for me. I'm on the road to recovery. :)

[@NROS2012]

You shouldn’t use motor vehicle analogies like car gears if you don’t understand them. The “resting gear” when the engine is more relaxed is 4th , 5th and above. The “stressed gear” when the engine is more stressed and wear is higher is 1st, 2nd and 3rd.

[@teamlyon3109]

Thanks for your feedback NROS2012. I'll pass it along to Irene. - Jen from Team Lyon

[@mayamachine]

I'm so thankful for your generosity and quality information. I do the native medicine I was taught by my family. This information is such a outside perspective, it helps a lot with cross cultural connections. I was looking for some refreshment and continuing education. Luckily I found your work. I'm preparing to go do front line trauma relief and medicine at indigenous resistance against line 3 Enbridge pipeline to tar sands oilfield. Treating those confronting tyranny, getting arrested, attacked, demoralized in every way. I'm grateful to you, I suggest this is exactly what should be brought into homeless camps, shelters, detention centers.

[@teamlyon3109]

Hi Mikowacomet, Jen here from Team Lyon. Really glad you found Irene and this work too. I hope its supportive as you head to do some front line trauma relief.

[@MrEnaric]

This was incredibly insightful. I do not know how widespread this theory and related therapies are among therapists, psychiatrists etc, but it deserves all the attention it possibly can get. Thank you!

[@Michi85387]

I love everything you're saying but it will be easier to understand if you simplify & condense your topics. People in flight, fight or freeze don't have much memory retention if that's your audience. We need the info the most. Thank you so much. I appreciate you immensely.😻

[@IreneLyon]

Hi Michi, Seth here with Team Lyon. Thanks for your comment! We do our best to present short videos like this one - this is about as condensed as we can make it! - as well as long form lectures and chats. We simply can't put this stuff into anything much shorter than this though, and still do justice to the complexity and intricacy of the subject matter. You are absolutely correct about the difficulties with memory and concentration that people with unresolved trauma often have, so what we suggest is simply pausing a video and coming back later, if it starts to feel like too much. Thanks for being here and for watching.

[@joywilcox1124]

Yes, I find the same, have for a long time struggled with retention and found when trying to watch this video it was complicated and would be better to simplify it if possible

[@wtfhappenedtome]

@@joywilcox1124 I completely agree, but Irene doesn't reply to comments herself, and her team is defensive of her instead of understanding the request

[@johnbennett9436]

After listening to Stephen Porges at a conference last week (virtual) I knew I needed to find something that would help me to understand the polyvagal theory more. And I came across this. WOW! It's not just what you said but probably more importantly it is 'how' you said it. Thank you

[@MarthaMessage]

I struggle to understand concepts like this and often need to re watch several times to get it but you are a great teacher/explainer! I understood you perfectly and you're engaging to watch too. Thanks for the video!

[@SelfLoveU]

That's a simpler explaination than Porges. I'm reading the book, "The Polyvagal Theory" now and on page 2. Man, what a complicated book! Just getting the terminology is vital to digest the material. It's like a class.

[@teamlyon3109]

Right! Such a heavy book. Sometime simpler is a better place to start! Then bit by bit the more complex begins to make more sense... Good luck with the book! Nicole - Team Lyon

[@behavioralhealthintegration]

I bought the book Irene showed early in the video like roughly a year ago. It is such a difficult read as it comes to the scientific terms they used. I did use a little bit of it for parts of my thesis which was beneficial.

[@seahorsesalt4386]

Theres another book now called the pocket sized polyvagal theory which is an easier read apparently. Just received a copy. Well impressed by polyvagal theory, answers alot of mysterys. Stick with it 💚

[@HenriBourse]

Hi Irene, I am a Kinesiologist and your videos help my work so much. Thank you

[@sarahfenlonfalk]

Wow. This was so good! I’ve been teaching clients about the vagus nerve as THE parasympathetic/rest and digest. I didn’t have the whole story! Thank you for this video. So helpful!

[@yasminanjali]

I've been trying to understand this for about a year. Your KZbin did the trick. Thank You!

[@angelaleemcintyre5202]

thank you for this and all of your teaching. I'm retired and dealing with a reoccurence of breast cancer and beginning to learn about trauma. Your videos mean a lot as I'm unable to pay for a therapist or somatic experiencing practioner. Thanks again!

[@teamlyon3109]

Angela, I'm so glad you've come across Irene and her resources as you are dealing with a reoccurrence of breast cancer. I hope it provides some insight on how to support yourself differently this time around. If you're looking for some resources I suggest checking out these: irenelyon.com/free-resources/ irenelyon.com/tuneup/ Wishing you capacity in your process. Nicole - Team Lyon

[@Angels_Are_Real]

Wishing you instant Divine healing.

[@debraalguire2328]

I just discovered your channel and I love it!!!!!! My training is in mental health and I can not get enough of your information as you have a gift in explaining it all so clearly!!! Thank you :)

[@Schizopantheist]

Recovery from a place of knowledge seems so much more possible (and even being able to judge what 'recovery' should mean). That you brought Feldenkrais into this makes me very happy as someone who discovered Feldenkrais lessons (and meditation techniques) before I discovered complex trauma, Peter Levine, Van der Kolk etc...

[@ashleymeyer1400]

Thanks very much for this - just what I needed! I am trying to write a paper on recovery from CFS, ME and Fibromyalgia and this was the first time I totally got Polyvagal Theory! Really appreciate it!

[@teamlyon3109]

Great to hear it was helpful Ashley! Jen here from Team Lyon. Many who come to Irene's work come looking to heal a chronic condition or illness (often after many years of trying other approaches). If you'd like to dive deeper, here are two of Irene's resources that might be of interest: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoOvd6CipJepmJI and irenelyon.com/2020/01/22/how-stored-trauma-creates-somatic-symptoms-aka-chronic-illness/.

[@NayeliGarciCrespo]

Great and concise explanation! I just have a tiny bone to pick... you say the vagus nerve IS the parasympathetic nervous system, but while it can be considered the main contributor, it's not the only part of the PNS. Cranial nerves III, VII, and IX and spinal nerves in the sacrum also form part of the PNS, and though certainly that is not important for the purposes of this video or the explanation of Polyvagal Theory, it might be better to say it's the main part of the PNS so as not to create confusion, especially since Porges' already gets a lot of kickback from scientists who claim imprecision and lack of evidence to support his claims.

[@teamlyon3109]

Hi Nayeli Garci-Crespo Keller, Jen here from Irene's Team. Thanks for your input here. My sense is that Irene's comment was a video version of a typo.

[@NayeliGarciCrespo]

@@teamlyon3109 Gotcha. Or I was thinking it was a way of stressing just how huge a role the vagus nerve plays in the PNS, being 80%!

[@pia_om]

Wonderful explanation Irene, thank you!

[@rosannasun99]

What an excellent, richly informative talk in less than 20 minutes! I learned so much. Thx.

[@mingppc590]

I'm an international student who studying in college and English is not my native language. I did not understand the lectures my professor was given, nor by Porges' interview. Thank you so much for YOUR EXPLANATION. I totally understand it now. I appreciate your time in doing research and this video.

[@יוסידיין]

i love the way you speak and teach so clearly makes me feel at home! thank you!

[@monahooshan]

I appreciate you recapping and wrapping and re-wrapping, Irene ! I'm a teacher and I know how important that is! Especially for ppl who have short attention spans! It'd also be awesome if you could do more diagrams (you did once or twice in the video.. More could mean pausing the video, focusing well.. etc..).. Finally, do you recommend the book you talked about in the video to anyone interested in learning more or researching?

[@teamlyon3109]

Hi Mimi, Jen here from Team Lyon. The article Irene mentioned (and that is linked to above) would likely be of interest to anyone in this work. If Irene mentioned another book in this video, this would likely hold true for that too .

[@lashaunawarren]

What an amazing explanation. In less than 30 minutes, I learned what I struggled to comprehend from others in such a multidimensional way. Thank you for your clarity, poise, and relevance. We are fearfully and wonderfully made.......

[@Medietos]

My female, castrated cat got apathetic after being attacked and bitten by a big Norwegian Forest Cat. She isolated, neither ate not drank. it was probably what Irene describes, although animals are more natural and have muche better nerve-somatic contect with themselves. And she wa healthy before the incident, whereas I never was OK.

[@Marfilla]

I need to learn more how to calm down my fight of flight response. Thanks.

[@teamlyon3109]

Hi Marlene, you're certainly not alone in this! Irene has a free Healing Trauma training that talks more about this. I'll link to it here in case you want to check it out. - Jen from Team Lyon irenelyon.com/healing-trauma

[@Staboogie777]

I remember years ago I tried biofeedback , it helped immensely wish there was a dr that would do this on telehealth appts.

[@elskezwart1554]

Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge. Your explanation is very clear and helps me to understand my chronic pain and fatigue and work with myself.

[@djamilamonteiro8951]

You have the gift of teaching. I’m so thankful for this video, it was immensely insightful and engaging.

[@a_fellow_human]

Love the work you are doing and your videos! The world needs to hear about this stuff, so glad I found this channel.

[@jonathanmiller7374]

Nicely done! You tied together many bits of information I've been learning... I'm finally changing my life with this understanding of the ANS and applying daily body and breath work!

[@sealslayer]

Is it possible to be stuck in both systems at once! I have zero energy or will to do anything but am completely unable to relax and chill. My body feels like it’s literally stuck, I have no sense of time, day of the week etc.

[@teamlyon3109]

This is totally possible. We would say that "the gas and the breaks are on at the same time". This video might be helpful to understand this. more... kzbin.info/www/bejne/b3bcooOFfpiUq80 Nicole - Team Lyon

[@muzykaplemienna4415]

Start doing easy qi gong from youtube. That requires little energy and will put body on the right path gently.

[@flootzavut30daychallenge]

That is a totally relatable feeling.

[@carollecampeau4750]

Thank you so much. Easier to understand :) I FREEZE! Sometimes I can't even answer a question that someone asks.

[@sarahbayford7723]

I love your clear teaching ... it helps me to understand 😊

[@RakeshKumar-hr2ed]

Your channel and knowledge is absolutely wonderful Love from India

[@prayerlifemusic]

Well explained and Soooo important for us to learn about, especially for those with trauma histories!!!!

[@teamlyon3109]

Thanks for your comment! I agree with you 100%. This is SO importnat for everyone to learn so that we can support and make sense of what's actually happening in our systems :) Nicole - Team Lyon

[@lynblisso2880]

I have been suffering panic attacks which started whilst driving I just shut down out of the blue. My body said no more. 3 yrs and cant really drive without being automatically immobilized Dizzy, blood leaving my extremities. Im so glad I found your teachings on the very core of whats going on. I was forced to live with a narcassistic mother in law for 12yrs and on flight fight mode all the time she'd knock on my door literally 4 times a day wanting attention and drama. Im now stuck on hypervigilance. Ive moved out and reclaimed my original home which we left to help father in law after heart attack. Id want to move back but enter my brother inlaw whos mortgage was being paid by the rent from our house as there were 2 on the farm one of which he was in. For years he said i cant move back We'll lose the farm so i stayed put in the chaos to afraid to move. I now realized i was being blackmailed😖

[@teamlyon3109]

Hi Lyn, Nicole here from Team Lyon. So sorry to hear that this has been your experience. I'm SO glad that you've come across Irene's work and hope it continues to give you inside and that it gives you hope! If you're looking for some resources to start exploring I suggest starting with: 7 Steps to De-Stress - irenelyon.com/7-steps-opt-in-IL Or if you are interested in starting her program the 21 Day Tune-Up is a great way to dive in! irenelyon.com/tuneup/ So great to have you here and I hope to see more of you! Nicole

[@miriaml.150]

Hello, it sounds like you went through a lot in the past and it is still affecting your life negatively now. I'm a clinical psychotherapist and my first question to myself was whether you have been to therapy? If you have but it didn't help, I highly recommend you do a little looking around for somebody who is specializing in trauma. Narcissists seriously traumatize their victims. I believe you are in a state of Post TRAUMATIC Stress Disorder (PTSD) and you can get help to minimize it or work your way out of it completely with enough time. But people who are victims of narcissistic abuse really benefit by getting help from a professional. Some people heal themselves. But the only issue I might have with that is that it would take a lot longer. And the longer it takes the more pain you have to endure and the more your trauma continues to disrupt your life. Also a therapist is there to be emotionally supportive and validating. You can't do that for yourself. Nobody can. And working with someone who isn't trained you are likely to have to listen to their stories while you need to focus on yourself. People mean well. But therapy seems like it would be your best bet. I wish you the best.

[@lynblisso2880]

@@miriaml.150 yes over 3 years and suffer immobilization when i drive so its quiet trapping in itself A real tough scenario for me to feel safe

[@carlafabienne]

I not often comment, but: Thank you so much! Not only the Information, to me you got a very warm and friendly tone and face and clear talking at the same time. Instantly hit following and the clock ! Greetings from Germany...

[@teamlyon3109]

Thanks Fabienne!

[@sakshidanwar6236]

Very nice and clear explanation, I must say you are the best teacher and explainer. I searched many videos on polyvagal theory but didn't get it properly but u make it very easy for me to understand this. Thanks a lot

[@amandaengland8507]

I’ve been learning about polyvagal for months and this finally made it all make sense! Thank you so much for taking the time! :)

[@jacqw1515]

i needed to find this space of infos some 13 yrs ago, but still-finding you now, it's not been too late!:) thank you!

[@PTSDThroughtheDarkness]

I have PTSD and understanding your talk on the Polyvagal Theory really helps me to be calm, gentle and patient with myself through the immobilization season. Instead of "lazy and unmotivated", it's "my body is trying to heal from PTSD...it's working hard at healing". Thank you!

[@erichbrough6097]

1:25 - basically, that's the whole essential human experience right there, so more than a bit important! 👍💯 And, btw, this is that moment when you realize you've been stuck in the immobility, with hit-and-miss mobilization (mostly miss) _and_ messed-up rest/digest! 😳

[@eleanor4759]

This was SUCH a good explanation!

[@lisadennys6045]

Nice clarification of low tone dorsal vagus nerve!

[@teamlyon3109]

🙂

[@karencastoldi1291]

You explain things so well. What a great teacher!

[@sarainfranksoonias3048]

Your video gave me so much more clarity as I move forward healing. Thank you so much!

[@caesarya3408]

Thank you so much for explaining the "polyvagal theory" so clearly !! Many many more therapists, physicians etc. should get to know about this...!

[@teamlyon3109]

Yes indeed! Thankfully, this information is starting to seep into the mainstream. It will take a while, but it is happening :) - Seth from Team Lyon

[@PGHRS]

Astounding presentation...I have seen 6 times....expect to see more....great work irene

[@wldflwr143]

This was amazing, thank you! Just came across this today and it seems fitting that it premiered on my birthday a couple years ago (: I feel like I understand myself better now. Just subscribed

[@Raizaunica]

You are a great teacher. Thank you.

[@mareegoulden6424]

This is a brilliant verbal explanation. I've been interested in Polyvagal Theory for a few years, I find my own words difficult to express my understanding. I have used some of these forms to experience my own healing. - I believe, I have come to a place of self regulation, and know how important co-regulation is. It was definitely lacking in my childhood,, any suggestions how I can enjoy this, - as I enjoy being a 'loner' rather than being social. My life is fulfilled with plenty of self care and interests.

[@teamlyon3109]

Hi, Nicole here from Team Lyon. My suggestion would be to be curious about what your experience is like when you are being social. Is it activating and exhausting or are you able to stay self regulated? See what it's like to explore this. What it's like to engage with people. Whether it's the general public or friends. Be curious on what feels safe and welcoming and what it's like to integrate a bit more of that into your life. A book you might want to check out is "Accessing the Healing Power of the Vagus Nerve" by Stanley Rosenberg

[@Medietos]

"Theory"implies the facts behind symptoms, workings, behaviours etc, often including drawings of it. The opposite of concrete, practical, subjective symptoms. of the practice and facts of something, people generally confuse the term with hypothesis. mostly when "theory" is said, they mean hypothesis. Which means it is an idea about how something may work and be, also called "work-hypothesis" before reaching factual knowledge.I don't remember the exact definition of "theory", was told it by an inventor of machines 40 years ago.

[@laynesmith-brown2270]

Awesome communicator - this is all new to me and boy was this a clear and helpful explanation. I'll b back!

[@fabioalbertogattei8521]

beautiful and very passionate explanation thank you very much very inspiring

[@laurenmacdonaldable]

A diagram would have helped a lot. Good content thanks.

[@jesspimlott9518]

Wonderful video.. just been to a conference on trauma therapy and wanted more education on the polyvagal theory so thank you xx

[@stephanbecker7438]

Dear Irene Lyon, recently in the field of study in this subject matter, and especially doing some research on the Polyvagal theory, could you please give me your references, your background and field of study? Kind regards

[@teamlyon3109]

Hi Stephan, Irene has her Masters in Biomedical and Health Sciences, she is a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), a Feldenkrais practitioner, and has trained extensively with Kathy Kain and Stephen Terrell in a body of work called Somatic Practice. You can read more about Irene's story here: irenelyon.com/meet-irene/ (scroll to the end for more about her credentials). Jen from Team Lyon

[@stephanbecker7438]

@@teamlyon3109 Thank you very much for this information.

[@meredithbrownwishpathheali4356]

I love your videos. Thank you so much. Could you please answer a question for me? When you defined the Polyvagal theory at the start, Mobilization was listed as one of the three parts. (Immobilization and Social engagement being the other two). Is it correct to say that mobilization is part of the SNS and NOT a branch of the vagus nerve? I feel a bit confused if it is or is not a branch of the vagus nerve, as it is listed as a part of the polyvagal theory. Thank you for your help. 🙏🏻❤️

[@relaxmore]

Yes, mobilisation is sympathetic part of the ANS.

[@IreneLyon]

Hey there Meredith. You are correct, the mobilization response is fuelled by the SNS. But the polyvagal theory is MORE than the vagus nerve and its branches. It is the entire orchestration of how our neural regulation evolved as mammals - so it describes all the stages of development of the mammalian nervous system. Hope that clarifies. Irene :)

[@meredithbrownwishpathheali4356]

Thank you Irene. That is so helpful! 🙏🏻❤️

[@HappyHolyHealthyLife]

This is so helpful 😭 I've battled lethargy & low grade depression my whole life 🥺

[@shannonrupright1682]

Your pointing out how we cant get ourselves to get up and get sh## done was v eye opening. .

[@marissaporte2861]

Thank you Irene🌹 I hope to take your 12 wk. training!

[@teamlyon3109]

Would be so great to have you in there Marissa! Nicole - Team Lyon

[@ggonsg]

You are such a gift to this world! Thank you for sharing your tremendous knowledge and wisdom

[@markhenryramsey9132]

I have heard the reactive states to danger being referred to as. Fight, flight, freeze, flop and friend (as in befriend).

[@teamlyon3109]

HI Mark Henry Ramsey, Jen here from Team Lyon. Yes, some talk about the states that way. The way Irene teaches the fight, flight and freeze states are primary. If I'm understanding, "flop" might be an extreme of freeze (or conservation) physiology, and friend, or what some call fawn, is seen to be a response to living in survival (as in the person is a treat, so be-friending or fawning is a way to mitigate that threat).

[@SamSam-xx6dv]

@@teamlyon3109 could Faith also be a protective response?

[@teamlyon3109]

@@SamSam-xx6dv , to answer this answer it might help to differentiate between innate protective/defensive responses such as the instinct to run away, to push someone away, to fight, to numb or go into a state of shock in extreme circumstances, and the defenses or strategies we adopt (usually unconsciously) to avoid direct contact with our experience. The latter would be things like spending lots of time on social media, drinking or using drugs to excess, overeating, etc. Faith can definitely fit into the latter category, and it would depend on how someone relates to their faith.

[@SamSam-xx6dv]

@@teamlyon3109 I agree, although, if faith is a protection it can be in part, part of the innate system. Such as belief in self preservation, such as, you're going to make the grasp of that branch, failure not an option. A wishful knowing paradox?

[@We-are-one1978]

But what happens while doing something with/ for the vagus nerve - some exercise- for example; while being not regulated? Many people sell products for this 'problem' but there is no knowledge about the 2 brenches I'll guess? So is there a chance to get into freeze while one is not regulated enough?

[@TheHydrogenbond]

Is there any experimental evidence to support the things you are saying or are we just supposed to take your word for the polyvagal theory and how it works?

[@teamlyon3109]

Hi TheHydrogenbond, Jen here from Irene's Team. I'm not totally clear about what you mean by "experimental evidence" as there are many implications of polyvagal theory and a number of related research studies. If you want to learn more you might be interested in reading Stephen Porge's "The Pocket Guide to Polyvagal Theory". You can learn more here: www.stephenporges.com/books

[@finakhan5221]

Amazing! Thank you I now have a better understanding of the vagal system.🙏🏻❤️

[@larisacristea796]

Thank you for the video! I can say you really got me into writing down a comment, so this is indeed huge appreciation of your work. Now I was wondering if the theory VS hypothesis can be translated into what is assumed VS what is the proven (theory=proved)

[@teamlyon3109]

Hey Ana, Seth here from Team Lyon. It's hard to prove this stuff at this point because we don't have the technology to measure the levels of survival energy in the nervous system etc.. I mean, it is biological fact that we have two branches of the Vagus and that they govern different functions, but it is difficult to prove survival energy because we can only measure it's effects - such as adrenaline and cortisol levels, limbic brain activity, etc... There is one good study that was done on the efficacy of Somatic Experiencing as a treatment, but that might not be what you are after. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5518443/

[@cinziasevignani]

Very good summary! Thank you!

[@janinewhite5438]

Wow! I'm trying to heal but have issues with a hiatus hernia. It seems this type of hernia affects the vagus nerve. Your video explains a lot but i feel like the way out for me and for me to really heal is now impossible 😭

[@teamlyon3109]

Hi Janine, Seth here from Team Lyon. Sorry your feeling discouraged, it can certainly seem like a long, hard road sometimes. A hernia is generally more of a structural problem than trauma-related, but maybe check out some of Irene's free resources and put some of this work into practice, it certainly couldn't hurt! irenelyon.com/free-resources-2/

[@janinewhite5438]

@@teamlyon3109 aw thank you for your reply. I've been havinf therapy for trauma but have noticed wlthat when my hernia flares up my anxiety symptoms increase. I will definitely have a look at the link ☺️💫 xxx

[@teamlyon3109]

@@janinewhite5438 - sure thing. Yes, that makes sense. Any increase in physical stress can flare up the stress responses. I'm glad you've got some support!

[@tranick8]

Janine, if you choose to have a hernia surgery, I highly a Neurostim procedure done afterward. Abd. scars can restrict fascial lines of movement and up-regulate the nervous system. This 1-3 session series may re-calibrate the 'reptilians part of the brain' to begin coming out of high- tone or sympathetic ANS. Check out: dolphinmps.com to find local cert. therapist. I use these in my Boulder practice and have supported many clients with more 'stay power' inner calm.

[@dianeforman696]

Awesome! What I’ve been looking for all my life!

[@toddboothbee1361]

Could the high tone dorsal vagal response induce bradycardia, at least in some cases and to some degree? I think this is only the second I heard about this theory, the other being Dr. Porges. This seems like important material -- thanks for explaining it clearly.

[@Rasmus.Skytte]

This is really good! Thanks for this video, i will be looking forward to seeing the videos you mentioned in the video :)

[@SynapticIllusion]

Really informative 😃Thank you! You have a really nice calm way of presenting your point too. Super easy to understand 🙏🏼

[@NidhiChaitow]

Thank you so much Irene - this explanation is wonderful and so clearly explained. Be blessed xx

[@teamlyon3109]

So great to hear that you found the explanation clearly explained! Thanks for watching :) Nicole - Team Lyon

[@kingsaved7270]

great video! with many explanations, and reviews! great work! thank you very much, Irene.

[@sallygarozzo]

Would you say that hypothyroidism is linked to this high tone parasympathetic activity (eg shutting down)? I'm a hypnotherapist and I'm very interested in this because a lot of my clients have 'shut down' and are in internal conflict which seems to result in stasis. I intuitively feel that hypothyroidism is the physical manifestation of this 'shutting down'.

[@IreneLyon]

Hi Sally, Jen here from Team Lyon. As you probably know, there are many factors that contribute to illness and chronic conditions, and trauma is a major one. Yes, shut down, aka high tone parasympathetic (PNS) activity often correlates to hypothyroidism (and Hashimoto's) and other autoimmune and chronic conditions. The system is not designed to live in survival mode. If you haven't seen it, you might be interested in another video Irene did on: On chronic illness, chronic fatigue, autoimmune and more: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hHq8iYOwlM15jtE

[@reneelaurin535]

Very awesome knowledge, thank you so much for all the work you have put into your life to learn about such stuff. I don't have much education of the Vagus Nerve but I do have personal damage to mine. I was first told this in 2016 but had shown signs of this damage for most of my life and not having any answers to things until I was 37. In 1982 and 83 I had surgery above my right ovary and then my left, leaving over a 2 inch scar on each side due to having hernia's. I can actually feel my nerve, the damage that was apparent to a doctor was on my left side mid-way on my torso. I've always wanted to meet or talk to someone who understands so I can pass some knowledge on things that happen to my heart beat and the way I act due to what I believe is pressure on my Vagus Nerve or even scar tissue attachment pulling on it. or even scar tissue of 37 38 years of damage to my insides causing tears to the nerve and my other organs. I would like some feed back if you ever have the time please and thank you.

[@teamlyon3109]

Hi Renee Laurin, Jen here from Irene's Team. You asked for some feedback, I have a few overall thoughts for you. Generally speaking when we take steps and get support to grow nervous system regulation (the way Irene teaches) some aspects of our experience and health often start to change and resolve, and other aspects may not. This can give us more information about what may be due to nervous system dysregulation and what may have more structural, epidemiological, etc. causes. If you're able to work with a body worker trained in Kathy Kain's Somatic Practice work in addition to participating in an online program such as Irene's 21 Day Nervous System Tune Up and/or SmartBody SmartMind, it might be a powerful combination. People trained in Kathy's work are often trained to work with scars from a trauma perspective, and some may also have additional training in gently working with scar tissue. If you look for a practitioner, you might ask them if they have this experience. I'll share links to Irene's programs and to where you can search for a practitioner if you're interested in doing so. Much of this work can be done online (even touch work) so you could definitely start there if seeing someone in person is not an option right now where you live. 21daytuneup.com smartbodysmartmind.com coregulatingtouch.com/find-a-practitioner/?wpbdp_view=all_listings

[@ABunnik]

Thankyou! I learned so much especially that the freeze response is part of the psns and not the sn 👍🏼

[@ryanhamilton3279]

Thanks for this extremely informative video. Do you happen to know how HRV behaves during dorsal vagal shutdown? Is it rather high or low?

[@IreneLyon]

Ryan Hamilton, good to hear you enjoyed this video. In dorsal vagal shutdown, also referred to as "high-tone dorsal vagal", HRV would typically be low. - Jen from Team Lyon

[@PURPLEHAZE30000]

I am so glad I found you. This is going to be shared. I'm an RN and I know the physiology but I didn't connect it to myself. And now I'm in a crisis. My bus is being run my a maniac. How can u help me?

[@IreneLyon]

Hi Marcia, Seth here with Team Lyon, I'm so glad you found us! Keep on watching and learning here for sure, but the best way to get help is for us to teach you to help yourself! That's what Irene's online programs are all about, so I suggest reading about them, and if you feel drawn, sign up and start doing the work. irenelyon.com/programs/

[@LadyBGoode-gr8wm]

I think I need her to use a white board. Great info being shared but sometimes it’s too much wall of words.

[@Michi85387]

Let me stop you there. Birds have an incredible amount of social connection. What do you think they're singing to eachother? Birds are hundreds of millions of years older than humans btw. I think they're much more advanced than us in so many ways.

[@IreneLyon]

Hi Michi, Seth here with Team Lyon. Yes, birds are certainly social creatures who communicate with each other! What Irene is saying is that they don't have a ventral vagal parasympathetic nervous system like mammals do, which is what governs our ability to co-regulate with each other through social interaction.

[@LavenderLori406]

Irene, for the last 3 years an ever increasing oddity has occurred in my upper middle back just below my right scapula. It itches, sometimes like crazy but seems not to be satisfied when I scratch it. I've asked dozens of friends to look at the area. They see nothing. It seems worse in the evening but does not bother me while I sleep. A recent convo with another friend around my same age (in 56 in January) she said she also has this itch. And that her doctor said it is an area where a bunch of nerves come together and had no explanation as to why they are acting up. Watching this video from you has me wondering if it is some extension of my vagus nerve? Any thoughts? Thanks

[@teamlyon3109]

Hi Lori Parr, Seth here from Team Lyon. It's unlikely that what you are experiencing has anything to do with the Vagus nerve, because while the ventral and Dorsal branches of the Vagus enervates most of our organs, it does not travel to the back in the area you described. One thing to consider is that sensations of heat and itching often have to do with unexpressed anger. Though there certainly could be other explanations as well, if you are a survivor of trauma, it is possible that there is some anger in your system wanting to be expressed. One thing to explore is seeing if there is any movement of the arm on that side that seems to 'tap into' that itching - exploring SLOW movements of the arm, perhaps as it would move in a self protective way - to push or punch - might be interesting. Or, it could be unrelated to unresolved trauma.

[@chinookvalley]

Consider researching Morgellpn's disease. It's not just a "conspiracy theory". www.mayoclinic.org/morgellons-disease/art-20044996

[@LavenderLori406]

@@chinookvalley firstly, the Mayo clinic is the LAST place I go to research. Secondly I'd be more inclined to think it a spontaneous opening of my heart chakra than a "disease". But it obviously is pent up anger.

[@LavenderLori406]

@@teamlyon3109 A pretty fierce bout of rage came out today in regards to bad memories around the holiday. Using Irene's methods I allowed it, acknowledged it, encouraged my raging inner child to get it out and then curled up in child's pose and consciously felt my body in my surroundings and rested there. It felt like a very positive experience. And I am so grateful for this teaching. Thank you!

[@sunnythomassen6499]

Lori Parr z

[@dianaboughner7977]

Thank you Irene 😊👍👍💖 You explained this polyvagal theory so very well that I could see how and when the different aspects of it are active in my life.

[@teamlyon3109]

So great to hear this Diana! Nicole - Team Lyon

[@EmptyCagesPress]

This was excellent! Thanks. Will watch your other videos as well.

[@judinolan221]

How to fix it? My mother would put me in my crib and leave me to cry. I didn't get enough connection with anyone as an infant. How do i fix it now? It has all but destroyed my life. I connect with almost no one and don't know how. Please help!

[@teamlyon3109]

Hi Judi, Seth here from team Lyon. Thanks so much for watching. So sorry to hear about the neglect you experienced; you are certainly not alone in this as many of our clients experienced the same kind of thing. This is totally possible to heal from! It just needs the right education, tools, and support. The way that someone in your situation needs to start is by learning how connect with themselves in ways that support the nervous system and physiology to feel safe. Then, as you get better at this you develop more internal safety and capacity, which is what is needed to experience feeling safe with others. This can be done with 1:1 work with a good practitioner, but those can be hard to find sometimes! I highly recommend that you start with Irene's 21 day Nervous System Tune Up, as that will give you the education and tools to start building new, safer connections with yourself and make you much more informed about what to look for in a private practitioner should you decide to go that way. There is also a a safe and supportive facebook group where you can connect virtually with your peers, which also has been very helpful for people who don't feel safe with others, as the group is all good people, and all at a bit of a distance :) Here's that link if you want to check it out... irenelyon.com/tuneup/

[@HigorMatos]

From Brazil. Thank you so much. I Will surpass my trauma!

[@calleesoltys7643]

what a great teacher you are.....I loved this!!! Thanks!

[@giakhalsa7971]

Thank you. You do a great job on a very complicated topic.

[@soupreality6389]

That what should have been taught when we are still kids in school or by parents rather than tones of useless to ourselves information oriented to ‘ how to become perfect slave by design ‘ ...

[@lukecarey613]

Wow, I’ve been in a high tone vagal response for years, 😔 thank you for your amazing video 🙂 I will discuss this with my psychologist it is a fascinating subject 😎

[@lukecarey613]

(dorsal vagal)

[@lp5715]

FINALLY! I get it now. Thank you so much for the clear and concise explanation.

[@wr9331]

Great explanation for lay person like me. Thank you!

[@marie-soleildauphinais9530]

Thank you so much for the explaination 💗

[@funnyface1305]

I have a question about multiple sclerosis. Since it attacks the myelin, could that make it more difficult to regulate the nervous system? That is saying that those are the nerves that have been affected. I know it can affect any nerve.

[@IreneLyon]

Hello, Sophia from Team Lyon here. As Irene's team is not comprised of doctors or psychiatrists, we suggest you consult with a medical professional regarding this specific question. I hope this helps

[@ly-xz7pk]

Can this explain my stomach issues? For over 20 years I've been suffering from stomach aches that cause extreme head aches, shut down my brain & body, until I finally throw up. Then I feel a bit better but really it takes about 12 hours for the whole thing to pass. I've noticed that it almost always occurs after really being emotionally dysregulated. Could it be that my system just shuts down & food doesn't get digested & then that make me sick ? Thank you Irene.

[@teamlyon3109]

Hi Levi, Seth here from Team Lyon. YES, absolutely. What you describe sounds like a cycle of activation (fight/flight - stress, emotional upset and intensity) followed by shut down. This is very common when we have unresolved trauma in our system. I highly recommend getting started with Irene's free resources, or joining the 21 Day Program! Linked below... Free Resources - irenelyon.com/free-resources-2/ 21 Day Program - 21daytuneup.com/