03/02/2026
Polyvagal Theory, developed by Dr Stephen Porges, reframes the autonomic nervous system (ANS) not as a binary on/off switch, but as a three-stage hierarchy that evolved to manage survival and social connection. It is often described as the "science of safety" because it focuses on how our bodies subconsciously detect and respond to environmental cues.
The Three Autonomic States
The theory proposes that the ANS responds to challenges in a specific evolutionary order, known as the principle of dissolution (responding in the reverse order of evolution):
Ventral Vagal (Social Engagement). The newest system, unique to mammals. When we feel safe, this myelinated branch of the vagus nerve promotes calmness, heart rate regulation (the "vagal brake"), and the ability to connect with others through facial expressions and vocal prosody.
Sympathetic (Mobilization) Activated when a threat is detected. This "fight-or-flight" state increases heart rate and prepares the body for action.
Dorsal Vagal (Immobilization) The most primitive system. Under extreme life threat, this unmyelinated branch triggers a "shutdown" or "freeze" response, leading to dissociation, fainting, or metabolic conservation.
Key Concepts
Neuroception: An unconscious process where the nervous system scans for cues of safety, danger, or life threat without conscious thought.
Co-regulation: The biological imperative for humans to use social connection—such as a calm voice or warm presence—to help regulate each other's nervous systems.
Vagal Brake: The ventral vagus acts as a brake on the heart; when we are safe, it slows the heart rate to support rest and connection. Releasing this brake allows for rapid mobilization without full sympathetic activation.
Applications
Trauma Therapy: Used to help survivors understand that their "freeze" or "shutdown" responses were adaptive survival strategies, not failures of will.
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP): An auditory intervention developed by Dr Porges that uses modulated music to stimulate the social engagement system and reduce auditory hypersensitivity.
Vagal Tone Exercises: Practices like deep diaphragmatic breathing, humming, and mindful movement are used to actively engage the ventral vagal state and enhance resilience.
At Tranquility Lounge we support natural relaxation and recovery using scientifically supported techniques, adapted to the individual needs, using a non-clinical model (Psychological Tuning) devised by Valentina D Diaconu , Academic Psychologist and Mental Wellbeing Practitioner
Support for your mental wellbeing, clarity and balance Tranquility Lounge is a dedicated space for adults who want to improve their mental health, reduce emotional overwhelm and regain a sense of balance, without immediately entering therapy. It offers non-clinical, research-informed psychological
