1st. Some recommended works by Stephen Porges – author of the Polyvagal Theory
Here are a few easier to understand works by the author of the Polyvagal Theory (wikipedia).
- Neuroception article in Zero to Three Magazine – PDF link – Definitively the easiest to understand Porges Article that I know of.
- Interview with Stephen Porges in article form on Nexus Alive – Web link – Historically a very readable version of Polyvagal theory.
- The Polyvagal Theory official book – Amazon Link (non-affiliated) – Heavy reading but key for those most interested in the theory.
- Stephen Porges official website – StephenPorges.com.
Polyvagal Theory Explained by Twig in Useable Pieces
This parsimonious (concise and insightful) scientific theory about how our autonomic (involuntary) nervous system evolved over phylogenetic (evolutionary) time to include 3 distinct sub-systems provides a critically helpful “map” for therapists and helping care professionals everywhere.
By learning how to recognize the influence of these 3 sub-systems and appreciate their unique responsibilities we can better aid our clients toward resolution of their arrested stress response (trauma) and other nervous system influenced physical and psychological complaints. It provides a kind of map that tells you both where you are and where you need to go. In many cases, it even tells you what you need to do in order to get there (though with that I’d recommend getting familiar with Peter Levine’s Somatic Experiencing).
Here’s a basic list of current online material that I’ve shared to help people like yourself appreciated and integrate the Polyvagal Theory all explained by Twig.
Workshops:
- Making Use of the Polyvagal Theory – Invite Twig to Your Community
Video:
- Polyvagal Theory and the Ventral Vagal Complex’s Role in Keeping Us Calm (5min)
- Polyvagal Theory and Resiliency (11min)
- Polyvagal Theory and Neuroception (12min)
- Polyvagal Theory and Reverse Engineering Therapy (25min)
- Polyvagal Theory and Affiliation in Mammals (8min)
- Polyvagal Theory in 11 Minutes (11min)
- A recorded conversation that Irene Lyon and I had around Neuroception (45min)
Audio:
- Dorsal Vagal Complex Major Attributes (42min)
- Sympathetic Nervous System Major Attributes (18min)
- Ventral Vagal Complex Major Attributes (13min)
- Cautionary Words on a Ventral Vagal Bias (6min)
- Reflections on the Importance of Neuroception (8min)
Text:
- You can read my original undergaduate paper on the Polyvagal Theory explained by Twig below.
- More text works on their way, if you’ve downloaded my paper you’ll be on a list to be informed of new pieces.