Happy New Year!
To kick off the New Year, I’m hosting a 3-day Nervous System Reset Masterclass on Jan 8, 10, and 11. Join us here: https://forms.gle/8hYgNYuCTVfSjzF86
The nervous system is made up of the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.
The central nervous system (CNS) consists of the brain and the spinal cord while the peripheral is all the nerves and ganglia that exist the CNS and interact with the rest of the body.
The PNS can be further divided into two main branches: the somatic nervous system and the autonomic nervous system.
The autonomic nervous system is divided into two main branches: the sympathetic nervous system, which prepares the body for action during times of stress, and the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps to restore the body to a state of balance after the stress response has been activated.
The vagus nerve is one of the largest nerves in the human body and is part of the peripheral nervous system. It originates in the brainstem and extends down through the neck and thorax to the abdomen, connecting to many of the organs along its path.
The polyvagal theory proposes that the evolution of the human nervous system has led to the development of two distinct branches of the vagus nerve.
The oldest branch of the vagus nerve (dorsal vagal complex) is responsible for conserving energy and promoting safety through behaviours such as immobilization and withdrawal.
The newer branch of the vagus nerve (ventral vagal complex) is responsible for social engagement and connection. It facilitates communication and interaction through eye contact, vocalizations, and touch.
The polyvagal theory suggests that different forms of stress and danger activate different branches of the vagus nerve, leading to distinct patterns of behavior and physiological responses.
For example, in response to a perceived threat, dorsal vagal complex may activate to produce a freeze response, while in a safe and socially engaged context, the ventral vagal complex may activate to promote social connection.
Why is the important?
During trauma and states of chronic stress, the body cannot process all the information that it is receiving.
In response, the dorsal branch of the vagus nerve may become overactive, leading to a state of chronic arousal and a heightened stress response. This can result in symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, and hypervigilance, as well as physical symptoms such as increased heart rate and muscle tension.
The ventral branch of the vagus nerve, which is responsible for social engagement and connection, may also be impacted by trauma. This can result in difficulty regulating emotions, particularly in social situations, and can lead to symptoms such as social withdrawal, difficulty trusting others, and feelings of disconnection.
To learn more about your nervous system and how to regulate it, register for the 3-day Nervous System Reset Masterclass: https://forms.gle/8hYgNYuCTVfSjzF86