A theory by Stephen Porges proposing that the vagus nerve mediates three hierarchical autonomic states: social engagement, fight-or-flight, and shutdown.
From Greek 'poly-' (many) + Latin 'vagus' (wandering) + Greek 'theoria.' Theory of the many branches of the vagus nerve.
Polyvagal theory says your nervous system has three gears: calm and social (safe), fight/flight (danger), and shutdown (life threat). Your body reads safety before your mind does!
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