What Is the Polyvagal Theory?
Polyvagal Theory was developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, a leading neuroscientist, and offers ground-breaking insights into how our autonomic nervous system (ANS) governs our mental and physical states. The ANS is responsible for essential functions like regulating heart rate, digestion, and breathing, but it also plays a key role in how we respond to stress, danger, and connection with others.
At its core, Polyvagal Theory explains that our nervous system has three primary states, each connected to how we feel, think, and act in the world:

Polyvagal Theory not only helps us understand these states but also shows us how to move between them more effectively—restoring calm and resilience.
Why Is This Important for Your Mental Health?
Imagine your nervous system as a ladder, with each state of the Polyvagal Theory representing a rung. At the top is the ventral vagal state—your calm and connected self. When life’s stressors push you out of this state, you might descend the ladder into fight-or-flight mode or even further into shutdown mode.
While these responses are normal and even protective, problems arise when we get stuck in them. Chronic stress, anxiety, or trauma can leave us feeling trapped in the lower rungs of the ladder—constantly on edge or emotionally shut down. This imbalance can affect not only your mental health but also your physical health, relationships, and ability to enjoy life.
Living life rooted in the PERMA model allows us to spend more of our life living in the green zone.
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How PERMA Hypnotherapy Can Help You
Wellbeing
General Therapy
Imposter Syndrome
Personal Development
Coming Soon – Group Sessions
Bespoke