The Polyvagal Theory: The New Science of Safety and Trauma

[@kaliaaron]

I've been reading about and studying the Polyvagal System for years and this is by far the BEST explanation I've found! This man is clearly a gifted teacher! I love the way he breaks it down, shows why it matters, uses creativity and metaphors to convey such important information in ways that are understandable!

[@NerdNite]

Thank you, Lynn! You can follow the presenter, Seth Porges, on Twitter - twitter.com/sethporges

[@sethporg]

Thanks Lynn! As the guy in the video, that really means a lot.

[@fosterface28]

Like father, like son

[@kaliaaron]

I didn't realize you were his son-thank you so much for this. I have posted it on every professional list that I'm on, sent it to all my colleagues and my clients, and am using it in the trainings I lead. May we have some more please :-)

[@healcptsd6467]

God Job! And lets join forces and mobilize without fear! to spread this fantastic knowledge. :)

[@frankv9776]

Loved it! I am a recovered heroin addict. I am also diagnosed with Ptsd and Bipolar. I do not take pharmaceutical drugs. I did it by learning and by putting into practice what i learned. The whole time i have been practicing good vagal tone i just did not know it. Thank you so much. Love life!

[@NerdNite]

Congrats on taking control of your life, Frank! Keep on climbing upwards! Lots of cheers from us!

[@frankv9776]

Nerd Nite Thank you. I plan to inspire and write about my journey. I owe my success to videos such as these but most importantly i putting it into practice, simply knowing is not enough lol. Thank you again much 💘!!!!

[@maximilienbisson159]

@@frankv9776 How do you practice?

[@marshmelows]

So happy for you. Keep going well !

[@playfulworld-visionrecover329]

Frank V. Thanks for your comment. I'm curious to know what practices you learned that were the most useful to you in your recovery?

[@jennytaylor3324]

THANK YOU! FINALLY someone has announced that "trauma isn't just psychological, it's PHYSIOlogical." That's why talking therapies don't lick it! Now we just need them to tell the world's psychiatrists, therapists, teachers, doctors and employers!

[@gg_rider]

If course TALK helps, because it's the opportunity in a safe space to mentally reprocess symbolic threats - rejection, embarrassment, grief, sadness, hurt - to not "see" elevated terminal danger where none exists. Not that head-work and intellectual comprehension can fix everything about body and emotion, but I think it's part of the path. But you make a very good point, that other people who are critical of trauma reactions May assume that a simple explanation should be able to solve the problem, like telling a chronically depressed person to cheer up.

[@TheMmbrownmft]

Therapists who specialize in trauma know this already. EMDR and Somatic Experiencing have proven to be effective for working with trauma.

[@alisonperry1786]

Yep wen we did conected breathing therapy it was very physical & cathartic...

[@stephenammann7077]

EMDR is life changing!!!!!

[@michaelmcginn7260]

True dialogue in a safe setting, ie good talking therapy, is an enormously valuable facility for gaining knowledge and insight into ourselves including our traumatised selves. I say this from both sides of the fence.

[@highhopessince922]

I literally got goosebumps and tears watching this because I've never felt so validated and have finally heard things put into words that I've known for so long from my own trauma that no one else ever understood. THANK YOU!!! This was explained so well and the humor is exactly what i needed to make it through listening to this without glazing over and/or sobbing at the end.

[@sarvin4471]

Same!!

[@feeltheforce10]

Did you heal from your trauma 2 years on ?

[@jarijansma2207]

awwe ;')

[@RainJeys]

Thank you. I've needed to hear those words for 17 years, that freezing is a natural response to trauma. Everyone told me if I didn't fight or run, then it wasn't assault. I never realized the physical symptoms I now experience could have come from my trauma. I thought if I didn't fight or I wasn't completely psychologically broken, that it didn't really affect me.

[@alyssaleatham8544]

Your comment convinced me to watch this. I have the feeling you've changed my life for the better. Thank you ♥️

[@RainJeys]

@@alyssaleatham8544 I very much hope so.

[@alyssaleatham8544]

@@RainJeys I have since learned so much. I can't put into words how much this video meant. ♥️

[@susangrande8142]

Freezing absolutely IS a natural response to trauma! I had a PTSD flashback this summer to when I was 4 years old, and I froze and dissociated from my body, when my mother grabbed my hand to hurt me. I still have no conscious memory of the incident, but the body memory that got triggered.

[@RainJeys]

@@susangrande8142 I'm so sorry to hear that, and I sincerely hope you are doing better. And I'm glad you know that it was a natural reaction .

[@tamiclose]

I do agree with his message in most part. I would add, from my own research and awareness, in my life that trauma or stress is learned from our childhood environment. As he suggested, we sense our environment and our brains and body develop accordingly. We "pick up" how to act and respond. It appears we don't develop beyond our so-called 8 year old brain and body because our experiences get stored as an automatic response. Thus, we might be an adult, but not according to our body's response mechanism. We're still in survival mode from our inner child's response. If our parents consistently demonstrated stress and didn't know coping skills other than escaping (alcohol, religion, etc.) or fighting or freezing (shutting down the voice), then we, as children, can only adopt or adapt what is modeled. We can see other adults behaving differently, but our "true" model is our home environment. You can't just "think" your way through a perceived attack. You can utilize EFT to help your brain and body work through the perception and help the nervous system to sense calm. I can see where my automatic response system has been flight or freeze. Meditation is not useful for me as it's been an escape or spiritual bypassing to not face the perceived threat. I have to face it so I can work with my brain and body and help it through survival mode.

[@eminemilly]

tell me moree ♡

[@Noor-jw2tn]

From the moment one enters the birth canal trauma is present. That's life. Not possible to avoid it.

[@eminemilly]

@@Noor-jw2tn yeah it sucks when kids don't recieve empathy and direction from their own parents though

[@atiger4716]

@Diane Campbell for me this idea have given me more than others ways I explored, so keep investigating.

[@ts3858]

@Diane Campbell Yeah.my life is pretty much over...I have no more energy left in hypervigilant survival mode for almost 61 yrs Hiding out from my perpetrator...didn't amount to much...now I'm too tired to go on ..no $ for therapy... It's a joke...mental health is expensive n the poor n underserved fall thru the cracks...gdbye...

[@cocoruroh]

This is amazing. A year ago I experienced intense emotional trauma and wrote a story of what transpired in my body as I was experiencing this trauma. What basically happened is I shut down, disassociated, and proceeded to have a kind of hallucinatory experience of my body kind of disintegrating. At the time it was therapeutic, but also terrifying. I published the piece of writing recounting this experience and my friend just commented "Polyvagal Theory". So here I am. This is incredible, and has reignited my interest in the ANS, specifically relating to trauma. Thank you so much for this easy to follow introduction to the topic.

[@NerdNite]

Thank you for sharing your experiences. Your comments make us love why we make these presentations. Peace and love to you!

[@adrianmefford9030]

I thought he did a great job of breaking down the polyvagal theory. I’m thankful this information is widely available via the internet so more people who need it may find it and benefit from it. A note about chakras and energy and things he said are not responsible for calming the nervous system: Just because something is described in different terms than what you know and use doesn’t mean there’s no truth to them. Learning about chi/prana/energy in my body has helped me to realize how certain situations affect the way I feel and how I perceive the world. Understanding the concept of chakras or energy centers in the body has simply been a way for me to focus on how specific areas of my body feel when I’m in certain situations. This ties to polyvagal theory because when I can recognize certain symptoms in different areas like my digestive system (or you could refer to this area as the sacral chakra), I can identify that I’m feeling threatened and then use my breathing or somatic release exercises to calm my nervous system down and feel like myself again. So different terms, whether ancient/traditional or modern, can be used to discuss the same topic. My perspective is that this knowledge isn’t new, it’s just newer to the western world and to the scientific/medical community. So maybe rather than discredit the eastern terms like chi and chakras, we can point out that they had it figured out all along, we just didn’t fully understand it in the west or in scientific terms.

[@adrianmefford9030]

I’d also like to add that breathing isn’t the only way yoga and meditation calm the nervous system. If you practice progressive muscle relaxation during meditation and when you practice yoga and release tension from the muscles, you also calm the nervous system. Ever had a massage? Yoga and progressive muscle relaxation meditation can produce a similar feeling of relaxation and safety in the body.

[@stephaniesummerill7117]

Thank you for this video, I've been seeing a therapist for extensive trauma and it's exactly spot on. I'm trying to learn why I am the way I am at 53. I am very grateful, thank you!

[@EmbodiedLoveLounge]

As a young woman traveling through Europe and North Africa, my friend and I were surrounded by gangs of men with ill intent (they wanted to rape us). She froze every time, I fought. I also believe it’s important to bring domestication into the discussion. Little girls are raised to be agreeable. When confronted in a scary way, few will opt to be disagreeable and fight. I was brought up to protect my personal space fiercely (from the age of 3 I lived in one of the most violent First Nation reservations in Canada). My father knew he couldn’t protect me in every single instant, so he talked to me about being intensely disagreeable (yelling, screaming, scratching, hitting, etc) if ANYone would disrespect my personal space and body. Perhaps a creative conversation where the gaps can be explored?

[@Mrs.TJTaylor]

Good work, Father. Thank you.

[@4vendetta1]

@@Mrs.TJTaylor I agree. To me this is a type of preparatory nervous system training, where you have been unfortunately exposed enough but fortunately taught enough for your nervous system to have a different standard of a "deadly" or traumatic situation. For your friend ,and many others, this terrible situation was so foreign and terrifying that it was impossible to navigate. I am so glad you were able to respond you are an amazing and strong person.

[@maureenterrydeforge188]

Good point. Thank you for sharing.

[@sunnelyons394]

this is such a great point. wow

[@EmbodiedLoveLounge]

@@4vendetta1 i'm sorry I didn't see this until now. :)

[@jorahsulgit-haynie1230]

I always have known that I have a capacity to make people feel comfortable, and always described it as bringing people into their most genuine selves, and this explained that sensation and belief to me so well! Thank you 💜

[@luciagreco152]

This is revolutionary for understanding and treating a lot of the psychiatric labels that we are being given ie, depression, bipolar disorder, dissociative disorder etc. His father, Stephen Porges discovered it and his son is beginning to assist this generation and the ones to come to get the proper treatments to overcome these challenging to heal, so far, conditions. THIS IS AN EXCITING TIME! 🙏

[@chinookvalley]

His father is Stephen Porges? What a wonderful family. They have helped me more than any doc I have ever seen! Why don't all docs and psycho-therapists understand this??? Such a basic concept!

[@sonofhibbs4425]

Yes. And it’s high time. Much of the ideas in psychiatry still floating around need to be eliminated, and updated.

[@jdjesushernandezbecerril521]

Saying thank you isn't enough to express my gratitude for posting this info. You have no idea how this is changing my life now.

[@freisein6554]

Everyone on this planet ought to have a full grasp of that understanding. Definitely every therapist, doctor and school teacher. Great valuable information.

[@MrNicholasPower]

Lively presentation and very informative. One note of criticism, Seth , please try to avoid the arrogant dismissal of traditional medicine such as TCM. This is a common mistake made by "scientists" with limited knowledge. Stephen Porges has made a major contribution to furthering knowledge, but always remember it is just one more piece in a complex jigsaw. We achieve greatness when we integrate knowledge using an organising principle which utilises all systems available to us. Continued success.

[@mutant0177]

I agree to 100 percent.

[@mynameisrubianne3155]

Very good comment.

[@Kitapillar]

This was my only criticism and you said this so well :) Thanks for speaking up and being a model for stepping up with kindness!

[@andreasleonlandgren3092]

Saw you comment just as i thought this while watching him diss it..

[@gevinwilad1753]

I agree with your comment about TCM and would extend that to Ayurveda ,Buddhist Sikh and yoga disciplines as well. These traditional spiritual and psycho physical transformative healing systems of Hindu,Buddhist ,Shamanic ,Taoist etc origin are comprehensive integrated systems that have Great ability for human healing and fulfilment. They have very subtle Dharma path wisdom teachings that Aid humans in their quest for Wholesome meaningful lives. Polyvagal theory contributes something of great importance to science that will eventually help society and individuals but it is really fledgeling as far as being integrated for wider use in science ,personal and social healing. The Buddha didn't talk about polyvagal theory but he was comprehensive in addressing human suffering. He certainly did give solutions addressing conditioned fear/desire reactions that condition how we perceive the world and prescribed antidotes to de condition the human reactive consciousness that work on a primal subconscious level as well.His teachings are deeper then polyvagal theory. The way he described humans as comprising aggregates of form,feeling,perception,Impulse, consciousness called the five skandhas or aggregates ,indicates that he saw feedback loops of conditioning. His key teaching of the chain of codependent origination that locks beings into the cycle of suffering called Samsara is a coceptual tool to observe operations of suffering and liberate beings from the chains of conditioned causation that cause suffering. His teaching of the Brahmaviharas showing compassion,loving kindness,sympathetic joy and equanimity are good for the person who cultivates these states are very detailed. Polyvagal theory is good Science and research like this has great potential and usefulness for healing Trauma and other stressful negative conditions but the other systems from the east while lacking modern scientific terminology still have rich terminology in their spiritual technologies to uplift human beings into noble transcendence of suffering. But again i also applaud this presenter of polyvagal theory for making a great contribution to help overcome negative mind states with love and kindness.through this great theory. Peace love :-)

[@suzlov]

Seth, I have been listening to interviews with your father for years. You bring to life his theory. I love the visuals and your animated, passionate style. You have an exceptional talent for making this complex theory accessible.

[@sandralarsen3550]

I have been training people to release their trauma for 5 years now, this is a great explanation of why Trauma Releasing Exercises work so simply and yet so profoundly. Too many of us are carrying chronic 'fight or flight' and 'freeze'.Thank you for such a great explanation of why David Bercelli's TRE works so well.

[@lovesarita]

Yes, although it's important to understand that TRE was developed to deal with shock trauma (originally in war zones) and does not deal with relational, developmental trauma

[@26leno]

look intoh avening technique

[@eminemilly]

@@lovesarita what does?? emdr?

[@dawne2443]

I was guided to this video presentation, to Seth and now to his father, Stephen. I am so grateful for all of it. 💚🙏💚

[@patriciasanz3417]

The explanation is very didactic. Thank you. I had the opportunity to listen to your father (and your mother) in 2012, with Peter Levine, in Rio de Janeiro, and from that moment I was caught by the polyvagal theory, reading the book a thousand times, which helps me understand each more time the mechanisms of stress and trauma. Many thanks for sharing this video! Im Patricia, from Argentina.

[@robinrevell5873]

I did a graduate degree internship in a state mental hospital, working with women. At 9:26 of this video, you discuss mental illnesses and the similarities in physiology. I remember being very aware of the fact that all of the schizophrenic patients became that way immediately following a traumatic experience in their life. In fact, some had lived very normal adult lives with no previous mental health issues or behavior. It was an ahh-haa moment for me and I have often wondered why the medical/psychiatric community has never tied this together.

[@sorchajones1788]

Yess.. also see Jake Panksepp, who studied affect, still cognisant of his experiences of working in a mental hospital. He began the study of what came to be known as ‘affective neuroscience’.

[@robinrevell5873]

@@sorchajones1788 I will investigate. Thanks!

[@stephenclarkson9535]

Wonderful ! An enthusiastic son explaining Stephen Porges life's work with the passion only a son can muster.

[@graycestratton1503]

Lively, pithy, and most engaging. For years I have been instructing my patients to either literally or figuratively blow up a balloon, hold the breath for a secon then even more slowly release their breath in order to support their learning to activate the vagus nerve and initiate the relaxation response that triggers the parasympathetic nervous system response of slower heart rate, relaxed internal organs, and flooding of the periphery with freely circulating blood to warm the extremities. How wonderful to have this video to which to refer everyone that fully explicates the rationale for breathwork and use of other tools and techniques that aim for relaxation (DAVID Paradise lights, sound baths or tuning forks sessions, entrainment to music, particularly the Stephen Porges Safe and Sound listening system, singing, training the brain and central nervous system with EEG biofeedback, light aerobic exercise such as dancing and very weak types of electrical stimulation (alpha stim) or judiciously chosen and appropriate pulsed electromagnetic frequencies). How wonderful it would be for all who are highly anxious and traumatized to be directed to this information that addresses the core physiology of trauma with skill and self-directed tools. This result could avoid the snare of erngy, time, and financially dense psychological exploration of past negativity and discomfort that in the end still may glance away from the path to health and inner liberation that is most importantly needed.

[@bicibella996]

Grayce this is so interesting. I've taken note of some of these technologies you've listed and am curious to see how they all fit together. Do you have any books or resources you would recommend?

[@number9powwow]

interesting how he skilfully explains the way trauma leads to flat affect and freeze state and then turns around to describe that the ones you might find "creepy" at the party are most likely the traumatised ones. Humorous the way he describes it but devoid of compassion for the condition he is trying to illuminate--trauma.

[@IrishGal690]

I suspect it is a good-intentioned but a not well thought out attempt at humour, which he has throughout. It is hard to captivate an audience and as you can hear, the audience was rude, talking throughout his whole talk. Chalk it up to a stupid comment rather than a snub.

[@priceandpride]

It’s a nerd nite, lighten up

[@CompleteHealthControl]

Agreed I think this is a good observation. Trying to package valuable information about humans as entertainment feels awfully American and it really damages the validity and communication.

[@gg_rider]

@@CompleteHealthControl Alcoholics Anonymous, not just culture but in official print, is about sharing horror stories of pitfalls and life-disasters, sometimes somber but often with shared laughter .. joy for having survived, together. There's a bit of natural comedy plus tragedy throughout. It's a form of en-courage-ment. No?

[@ladvita32]

I heard that differently. I tend to feel like everyone thinks I'm creepy and I always wished I could explain to people that I'm extremely uncomfortable and afraid and me being out is trying to experience life in spite of it. I heard it as, if your instinct is to be creeped out by someone, consider that they might be traumatized. He wasn't saying traumatized people are creepy.

[@BHAVENZ]

Like your compact presentation Seth....slowing down your talking softens and deepens your prosody too and at times relaxes me more....:) I know it is a Ted talk with a time limit....thank you !

[@Lemonmm2]

Is this why I have trouble processing conversation even with someone right in front of me if I feel stressed?

[@aftrdrk7263]

Same !

[@adctd2gtr]

I feel the hell out of this comment. It's the same reason, I've now found after watching this, as to why I have the hardest time absorbing reading material no matter how interested I am in whatever it is.

[@Joy-ym3mx]

I can definitely relate! Being traumatized since in my Mother's womb...

[@marysparkles121]

U

[@90MysteriumFascinans]

Wow! I feel like I just had something described that I’ve experienced and suspected/intuited, but would of course struggle to articulate. Now I’m aware of terms and descriptions. And it all seems exactly how I’ve experienced life with trauma (childhood attachment trauma, though admittedly I feel guilty naming it trauma when others have been through so much worse) and depression. This may have opened up a whole new area of understanding and exploration for me. I’m so thankful. And not only that, but it was a great stage presence and funny presentation! Generally, I’d say that the person whose work has most influenced my understanding of the impact of trauma is Gabor Maté. But this is just as important and foundational, imo.

[@brigitalarsen7335]

90MysteriumFascinans ...I love Dr. Gábor Máté.

[@lisaboyl-davis9188]

LOVE THIS SO MUCH - That trauma is not psychological, it's physiological!!!!!!!!

[@dfs477]

It makes l a huge difference when you realize that, doesnt It?

[@Luke-zv6bb]

It’s definitely also psychological or at least that’s how u access the trauma but I totally agree

[@mayamachine]

The trauma starts in the mind, it doesn't have physiological effects unless the mind can't process it, all this is revealed in the ACE scores. You can't separate psychology from physiology

[@willdajarrett1107]

This is by far the most easy to comprehend explanation of the poly vagal theory I have ever heard.

[@Ron110087]

Shiva didn't need your explanation to provide the technique to heal trauma!! :)

[@NevadaYellowrock]

Seth, you rocked this explanation!!! Excellent explanation of polyvagal theory that is engaging, understandable and fun. I learned so much in just 28 minutes. And I will watch this again and share this with friends and clients.

[@Roberto-Escobar]

This video helped me heal from long covid. Thank you Seth for sharing all this and explaining it so simply.🙏

[@adamfribergforsberg]

This was a wonderful time spent for me. Learning more and gaining a clearer view of this theory. I love the way this guy lives out himself. I smiled and laughed with yall

[@estherderu]

Am so happy with this presentation.... touch, is what life is about, I love being a physiotherapist, having the capacity to touch and massage people, I can do so much for both the patient and myself.

[@NerdNite]

Beautifully said!

[@Be1More]

i'm glad the freeze response is getting more attention in this video

[@AngelikaWinklhofer]

There are two physical therapeutic methods to go back to green: One is TRE. The other is autogenous training. My clients and myself find great benefit in both. Thank You so much, for breaking this difficult matter down, so that it can be easily understood and used!

[@timetocook722]

MD here. I've listened to this a couple of times so just starting to read/research the ideas. I think you postulate some fantastic new ideas regarding trauma, physiology, reactive states, etc. However, a couple of red flags for me: "Ignored by the scientific community" "this explains everything" "20% input signals, 80% output from the brain" (this is reversed, might have been a slip of the tongue)" explaining away benefits of yoga - I don't think there's been a lot of good research into the physiology of why yoga works Again, I'm on your side and think you bring up a ton of good points with sound reasoning behind them but like all science, needs multiple fields and research to verify/explore. Peace.

[@stefanemslie88]

my thoughts exactly

[@scotscub76]

Prolonged Meditation is the only thing which temporarily treats my M.E. / CFS symptoms. I have to do 2 hrs a day to have any sort of life. It was triggered by an anti depressant medication withdrawal 14 years ago. If I don't do it I go back to feeling incredibly ill. I've now been learning about early trauma and TMS theory. Trying to send my body and subconscious messages of safety, its a difficult life to live. Thanks for this fantastic video.

[@dgetzin]

14:22 So the relaxing by the vagus nerve has “nothing to do with chi or chakras”? I understand the enthusiasm, but let’s look at this clearly. Chi: this is Chinese for life-force energy. The vagus nerve clearly uses electrical impulses that are literally vital energy. So yes, chi is involved. Chakras: the chakras are body cavities, around which there are metaphysical and medical traditions. The lungs are a body cavity near the “heart” chakra. And the cardio-pulmonary interrelation is well known to science. The video's lecturer just stated that breath work slows heart rate. Therefore, the heart chakra has a LOT to do with the vagus nerve. Traditions can enrich scientific understanding and science illuminates tradition.

[@timyarber9936]

Interesting points! Much to think about. Thank you

[@BPLdenver]

What he actually said was that an individual can control breath, and that is the *only* part of the vagus nerve pathway that an individual can control. If you think a person can intentionally control chi or chakras, you've spent far too much time around incense.

[@TheZero715zero]

30 years in Aikido, Kung Fu, and Qigong. Using breath or mind, can flow(or control) my Qi throughout my body for strength and healing. Now, unless you can explain what you mean further, I suggest that perhaps you haven't spent enough time around the "incense"....

[@marcusmoran1736]

Ok Trump. Just ignore the truth of what was said to keep lying and justfying your own bias. Byebye moron.

[@desireesedibe3733]

@@BPLdenver if you would know why and for whom incense is burned you would not make a joke like that. And there are several techniques of, for example, from Buddhist monks which enable a human being to control the heart beat and make it stop for minutes and make it beat again just by concentrating. I have seen videos about this several times. Your illusion, like most of peoples, is that the mind is only in the brain region. The mind is in the whole body. It's hard to use the right word here because in German language what i am pointing To more clear. Buy it actually proves the statement which magicians use often to how to explain the techniques of manifesting: mind over matter. You think mind cannot control matter (slowled down and therefore visible energy)? Why does placebo work then? And why does even high doses of medication not work as expected when the patient believes it's no use or wants to die? Had a lot of doctors explaining me this phenomenon. And chi.... energy follows awareness. You turn your awareness somewhere, that's where the energy goes. You shut someone in front of you up very effectively, if you just ignore him and dont react and continue to go through your paperwork. If you would have experienced something that disprove anything spiritual, I would like to hear it. But no experience, no evidence. Because if you have it, I can have it. And I would dare to challenge myself. Because I know it's very unlikely that this is true.

[@daviddmf]

the very best introduction to polyvagal theory. Just saved me hrs of research on this topic massive thx

[@NerdNite]

Thank you! The presenter, Seth Porges, has terrific passion for the topic.

[@Be1More]

i agree

[@mariaflynn4620]

Such a comprehensive and clear explanation in language that anyone can understand - brilliant

[@Bitachon]

*What happens in Vagus stays in vagus*

[@infiniLor]

Damn, son, how has that comment not been upvoted by at least a factor of ten?! 👏👏👏

[@Bitachon]

@@infiniLor haha thanks

[@yuriination]

Omfg that was a brilliant pun!! Hahaha!

[@authentiqueinc5699]

Lmaooo

[@meyersonfire]

until you hulk out

[@sorchajones1788]

We’ve all benefited from Porges’ Polyvagal Theory and the social engagement system, however I do think Seth explains this is such a way his old man never did. It’s like the Dummies’ Guide to the Polyvagal System. Fabulous. I’d be unlikely to send laypeople to Dr. Porges but I do recommend they watch Seth. Thank you Porges Junior!

[@miamonroe4431]

Truly an epic explanation! Very helpful and so engaging definately kept me in the green zone. Explains why when I am stressing I cannot learn too. Ahaaaa. Thanks Seth.

[@marciannegagliardi2022]

This is so easy to follow and understand. Thank you Seth for making it accessible!

[@NerdNite]

Thank you for your comment!

[@alaristodar2257]

This presentation literally made mw cry. Thank you so much for the clear explanation.

[@flexnetuser2268]

Understanding and feeling through trauma is profoundly healing. Tho this is excellent, here’s one more person selling a way to bypass and ignore the emotions and the reality of trauma therapy and the reality of the wounded inner child. But that child is our true self, our soul. So thanks for this important “piece”. But once again, now this is presented as “ the” whole answer. Still, this particular message received and appreciated.

[@IrishGal690]

Would not calming yourself down, experiencing way less stress, feeling safe, creating bonds, improved health and focus far outweigh the benefits of talk therapy and or having feelings validated?

[@НатальяВасильевнаЗолотарева]

Thank you! Excellent knowledge and an amazing speaker! Understanding how my body reacted to trauma has helped me in my healing.

[@8carola]

I agree with many here, this man is a gifted teacher! loved this explanation!

[@chinookvalley]

I sustained a Traumatic Brain Injury from a car wreck in 1990. Since then I do believe my Vagus Nerve was injured. When I tried to ask my neurologist about it he got really upset and demanded to know why I was talking about the Vagus Nerve, called in his PA, closed the office door and interrogated me for 15+ minutes. I left feeling as if I had done something very wrong. I think he was afraid I knew something that he feared. Weird.

[@hopespringseternal7028]

chinookvalley autourine therapy

[@cinmac3]

Did you find help?

[@matthatson]

Great introduction to the Vagus Nerve! I use Vagus Nerve Stimulation techniques myself and with many of my clients to great effect in improving wellbeing, decision-making and resilience!

[@vanessapetrea2490]

Thank you so much! That was a great talk! I paid attention because I’m interested in the topic, and I stayed paying attention because fun and laughs were intertwined. Great job in presentation!!! I appreciate you posting it to You Tube so I, and others, could find it. I’m going to share it as well! This is so very helpful, and healthful!😁

[@NerdNite]

Thank you for your comment!

[@mindheartspace]

What often happens is modern day science uses new language to refer to what ancient systems of knowledge explained in historical context and vocabulary that was available to them at the time. What he is saying doesn't conflict with ancient systems that explained how the body regulates itself, but confirms it.Yoga, meditation were the original science-- the information gathered from the lab of the body. But, putting it into recent research and scientific language makes it more accessible to a wider audience. Anyone who has suffered, knows exactly what he's talking about from personal experience. This presentation validates and quantifies what was before, indescribable for many victims of trauma. Which, of course, is huge. It helps people understand their trauma response as normal and automatic, instead of a choice.

[@Rover08]

11:22 Understanding the Red Zone allows us to understand trauma. 12:10 Red Zone = freeze, and shut down (It's not your fault!) 15:48 The long breath out signals down-regulation 20:27 Feeling safe is crucial

[@JohnSmith-ks5xw]

I was doing cognitive work on myself for a couple years and got incredible benefits, but progress stalled. I then became more interested in also treating my body and nervous system and started TRE a couple weeks ago. It complements the cognitive work (focusing on and taking responsibility for my thoughts and beliefs) I have been doing incredibly. I truly believe you need BOTH (focus on the mind AND have a body practice). One without the other is very incomplete in my opinion. Good luck everyone.

[@Think-dont-believe]

15:50 BREATHE OUT.. and a simple explanation of why.. WOW.. AMAZING.. I have NEVER heard that .. never been told a common sense/makes sense explanation.. Unreal this is not told and TY for doing it.. BRAVO!!! 🙇🏼‍♀️🙇🏿🙇🏽‍♂️🙇🏼‍♀️

[@aywancfc]

He was so funny! Lol and what a great personality as wel :) best neuroscience and physiology lecture I’ve listened to and the first one that hasn’t bored me to tears 😂

[@vrbnstl1]

I have noticed a tendency toward stress and anxiety whereby I am 100% able to control my response by both breathing and imagery, specifically, Biblical passages or songs. Strong lyrical melodies coupled with breathing have proven most powerful. Fascinating presentation! Never really fell for all the psychobabble any way.

[@amandaadams7934]

Just what i needed today. Wonderful presentation. In the midst of a ‘shutdown’ and I desperately needed validation for what is going on.

[@ComingHomeToYourself21]

This is such a great video. Watched it already several times. Especially the Traffic Light analogy, it is really a good one.

[@robbiesmoonmusic]

It was so cool watching how we watched him move further into social engagement around the 7:40 minute mark when he must’ve really started to feel more safe on stage because the crowd was engaging with him by laughing at his jokes, he suddenly was doing stand up ❤ notice how we flourish when our nervous systems finally get to be regulated and when we feel deeply socially connected?

[@sarahreid7599]

Brilliant. Well done! Keep on going, you are very, very good at what you do. Thank you so much, Sarah

[@Medietos]

A relief to hear that we can't thing and decide how to react always in trauma or fear. Although this speech is most suitable for native speakers live. Because he swallows the end of some important sentences making them impossible to get no matter how many listenings, since some words and idioms are not known for sure. Also the high speed of his speech and the roller.coaster pitch of voice which arouses a trauma/stress-exhausted one.I can't really get this as good as i would... Maybe the risk of freeze reaction is when one has been using up energy and forces, courage etc many times, a long time before, and in a subsequent situation you can't any more.Have the deep experience of one's own efforts and good will not giving any (good) results... If we stress too much..would it be good to maintain calm in bad situations? Won't the enemy think you are all right then? and won't the body also stop being prepared for fight or flee?

[@truthiseverything9511]

For a more than a year after my pancreas transplant rejected, my vagus nerve kept shutting down to the point that I was hospitalized many times and even taken by ambulance once. I would vomit for 12+ hours until I was vomiting feces, then the nonstop diarrhea would start. I had no emotional support and, at thirty-nine years old, was forced to move back with my mentally abusive parents who thought I was "making it up" and told me to "knock it off". My beloved-beyond-words little dog passed away just four months earlier so my bed was cold and and my heart was torn to shreds. I put on a brave face, but when alone I could never stop crying. It's been ten years now and I still cry nearly every day because my life has turned to absolute shyte despite doing every positive thing in my power.

[@sonjacillie1534]

Brilliant! Best human-friendly explanation of the Polyvagal theory!

[@moylanryan1742]

What about his explanation of efferent and afferent sensory impulses?

[@omlove3206]

This man is an EXCELLENT speaker! I thoroughly enjoyed his presentation and his delivery! Woot! He made understanding this information even more simple to understand. Thank you Seth Porges! Fantastic job!

[@atiger4716]

I want to said thanks, many thanks to the man that make this presentation, he gives a very good explanation in a short time

[@carisaunders2346]

Thanks to Dr. Stephen Porges for the vasovagal theory and helping so many with PTSD! Including myself!

[@choosetobehappynow1580]

I am so happy to discover Seth as I have recognizes that Stephen Porges is getting older and seth presents this fascinating information more simply. At the same time I wish they did not refer to the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system as wrong, They could say" there is more, 3 states instead of 2. Otherwise I love this work!

[@tamiooe]

Loved every seconds and was laughing out loud while watching it on a train in Bavaria and creating some green light environment. 💚

[@jainee4507]

In simple terms, breathe slowly throughout the day and meditate as often as possible. This is the best way out of anxiety depression especially if you are a loner and dont have social support.

[@daniellelevy6556]

This is amazing, so important - thank you. Seth Porges embodies the 'green' state! Wonderfully compassionate.

[@BingBongWasheeWashee]

Great and educational video. Really makes you think of the body and trauma and safety differently

[@NerdNite]

Thank you!

[@bambam859]

Audiology switches. Like wow, thanks for explaining so much and putting certain things into place. Edit. Watching more. You explained even more.

[@HollySuzanne11]

You are a gifted speaker and I especially love what you have to say! Thank-you for researching and communicating this very important information✨ As it is shared and understood more and more, I can see how it can benefit many and improve many lives, including many with trauma, PTSD.

[@humanyoda]

Speaking more slowly than Seth did in this video also makes people feel more relaxed and like you more.

[@suttonsantamaria2332]

There's a time limit on Nerd Nite presentations.

[@susanmarshall8466]

haha

[@sarahburkhardt2037]

He’s so right about trauma not just being psychological but also physiological! I see a counselor that also treats my nervous system and I really think it has made a wealth of difference. Also love the Disney theme song idea 🙂

[@siiiriously3226]

i looove that you said "if you take one thing away from this" let it be that freeze is a trauma response and you can go into a involuntary shut down.

[@kellyhewins2607]

Thank you, great delivery, easy to understand

[@sorsha1979]

I LOVED this! It seriously helped a lot. I feel I understand myself so much more now. Thank you!

[@resi_lienz]

🙏🙏🙏❤️ Most important and fundamental knowledge that isn’t taught ANYWHERE 😃

[@freisein6554]

This explains almost everything, thank you for sharing.

[@Fire-Toolz]

i really enjoyed this, and what seth is sharing is vital for all human beings to understand. however, i think it is careless to toss out the very prevalent psychological component to this. yes, the physiology is absolutely the body-based realm that trauma operates within. but trauma unchecked and unhealed can allow harmful, negative, self-defeating thinking patterns to become so engrained and habitual, which is how chronic depression can develop. to say it's NOT psychological, but physiological *instead* is pretty insulting. there are many people that have released deep trauma from their body through physical activities like breathing, exercise, proper diet, etc., but their mental activity still displays harmful patterns that manifest in dangerous ways. there are also many people that have been through years and years of therapy, and are able to dissect their trauma mindfully, face their hangups, and have mind-blowing, earth-shattering realizations that allow them to break through some of the rigid belief systems that have formed. yet, their red light response is still often triggered. they may see it in themselves, or notice it quickly, and use what they've learned to calm their ego down, which may have some kind of a physiologically calming effect. yet, that red zone is still triggered, time and time again. and they don't understand why they can't change, because they know clearly what happened to them, and what kind of negative thinking patterns they developed from it. so, what i'm trying to say, is that both fields need to FUSE. therapists need to learn body work and breathing practices. body doctors need to learn that the body is more than a computer. it is more than hardware. the software *can* effect the hardware. it's taken ages and ages but doctors are just now starting to wake up to how physical issues have psychological components. so, i wish seth weren't trying to turn that on its head just to prove his findings and research is legitimate. seth, its BOTH, dude. its both. yin and yang. left and right brain. they are totally and completely integrated. i feel like you may not quite understand what meditation is, in it's entirety. it's not just a mental process. it's very much physical. breathing is a huge part of it. look at the meditation practices across all traditions...most of them involve breathing as an important part. in hindu traditions, there's a whole lot of interesting breathing-oriented practices. so, try not to discredit shiva too much. all of the worlds great spiritual traditions understood that trauma was BOTH psychological and physiological. and we can see evidence of that truth plain as day in our every day lives. both both both.

[@eminemilly]

your brain is part of physiology. I like when they say it's not psychological it's more neurological.

[@FloridaBarExamCoach]

This is amazing, thank you for such a great explanation. You are an excellent TEACHER!

[@odette8905]

Brilliantly explained Seth, thank you.

[@SuzJCD]

I have treated traumatized dogs for years and have always said, the first thing above all else is to set up their environment to make them feel safe. That may involve keeping them in a safe space/room initially and keeping your distance until they have had time to get used to you and learn that you are not a threat. That your presence means good things happen. That they can retreat to their safe space whenever they feel the need, and that you will allow them to do that without harassing them. Once they realise they are in a safe environment and that they have more control over what happens to them, their confidence grows, their personality starts to come out, and then you can start working on building your bond and your trust account towards a profoundly rewarding relationship. I've seen people try to help a scared dog by cuddling them or petting them. Depending on the dog, their degree of fear, and how well they know the person, this can help. But sometimes the dog is absolutely terrified and in the orange or red zone, and human touch and proximity is aversive to them. Making them feel safe is the most important thing in getting them back to green. Which is exactly what Seth said in this amazing talk, but this is my personal experience with animals :-)

[@passanie]

This is fascinating. Thanks for sharing.

[@the.kai.eros.experience]

Thank you so fucking much. This has allowed me to let go of so much shame about my life experiences and activated such a passion for healing my nervous system.

[@kathrynflynn7761]

He trips up the fact on the nerve fibers - 80% of the vagus nerve fibers are afferent, meaning it's body (organs, etc) to brain, and 20% brain to body.

[@cybelecurlygirlyyogic909]

Yes! I noticed that too!

[@timetocook722]

I noticed that also, but I think several aspects of the theory seem sound and deserve more research

[@devora4386]

This guy is incredible! I hope he has more videos!

[@NerdNite]

Yes he has more videos: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ameXqIaggpKAn7M

[@devora4386]

@@NerdNite yes! Thank you

[@Shahina456]

Thing is - not everyone CAN live in a safe environment, nor resources to. Those traumatised young as children and ongoing are more likely to be compromised with health, financial, relational; and literally survival and societal issues. And in less safe or downright unsafe and dangerous situations ongoing or chronically. And unable to even though do and done their best. There really needs to be some talks for people who are in unsafe situations that can't con their system and physical reality that it is safe. Not just "perceived" but actual unsafety. What then? How to deal with that then? For countless people - who cannot just Live in a safe place, Work in a safe place etc.I love this presentation's explanation of polyvagal theory that covers a lot with brevity, in a concise relatable, engaging way. The gaping hole for those that cannot live in safety though - then what? Lengthening exhalations is one thing, worth doing, but cannot create safety where it isn't. Trauma healing is a Societal issue . I wish Polyvagal theory could provide something more to say for such people, other than be in a safe situation, when they literally cannot. What to do for people who cannot. I wish that could be something Poloyvagal community could work on to address such situations and people.

[@stilianifakidaraki3724]

This was incredible! THANK YOU!

[@Amandahugginkizz]

Omg this makes so much sense. I have panic attacks in loud crowded places and the first thing I notice is voices all dissapear, and my vision goes to a black tunnel vision, that is sk crazy it's all from not feeling safe having panic attacks

[@TommyStevens1]

Thank you so much. So much information I didn’t know. I feel validated. I’m not alone. Thank you. 🙏

[@Joy-ym3mx]

You are a naturally awesome speaker, who makes it fun to Learn! Thanx Seth

[@user-bd4bo4tb8u]

Is falling asleep or extreme fatigue a form of freeze response? I had a series of emotionally shocking events happen by someone I trusted. When it all seemed to be over, I, I became exhausted and sleepy all the time,if I’m rushed or get emotional news, I need to sleep or rest immediately. It’s the only thing I can rush to do, lol!

[@Captain_MonsterFart]

Interesting. I have a friend who describes the same thing. When things are stressful and need immediate attention, her reaction is often to take a nap.

[@chinookvalley]

I have seen this first hand! Yes, stress puts them into sleep mode.

[@catsmeow3478]

@@chinookvalley I believe it's the ultimate in shutting down from overwhelm, I've experienced it myself in extremely stressful/traumatic situations. And following a long period of trauma which I am currently recovering from, I notice that I want to rest and sleep A LOT. It feels like my body's way of healing and recovering because I lived on adrenalin for a number of years and could rarely relax. I'm making up for it now. :) And as Seth says, trauma is physiological - it triggers a cascade of stress responses in our body which require rest and healing in order to recover from, so it makes sense.

[@timyarber9936]

Great question! Now my mind will be racing all night.

[@daviddroomer1441]

That's very interesting, as my story (and sleep response) is very similar.

[@stasiarivera1203]

This was a great overview. THANK YOU!

[@bernybetancourt3470]

Excellent exposition. Thanks for sharing!

[@matchattack20]

best 30min explanation ive ever heard! thank u

[@NerdNite]

Thank you!

[@Rover08]

24:00 Steps to Fix trauma 25:03 Interventions to "bring back the green zone"

[@mysticmoth1111]

MVP right here

[@jenniferflower9265]

I love Disney sound tracks. I remember my kids growing up and hearing the Disney songs and my nervous system lighting up, sending happy tingles from my head down my spine. I’m going to start listening to them. I’m not sure why lots of people seemed to not like the idea.