Blog — polyvagal theory

  The number one goal of any “behavior modification” plan I write for a dog is to create autonomic flexibility.  For a dog who has experienced a specific trauma, or one who has lived in chronic stress for long periods of time (like at a shelter) their nervous system may be somewhat “stuck” in sympathetic arousal. Or, depending on their temperament and how they deal with stress, they could potentially spend weeks or even months in a state of shut-down (appearing aloof, depressed, dissociated). They might even flip-flop between these two states, going from one extreme to another.  Humans often...

  I really wish I had some fancy training techniques for you. I wish I could impress you with some sharp obedience and lots of down-stays around chickens (impulse control). I wish making your dog "wait" for his dinner and then telling him "okay" was the quick and easy fix to all your training problems. But let's look on the bright side... What we do have is the built-in technology of the nervous system to detect threat and safety. What we have is the fascia, the living matrix of the body. We have neuroception, co-regulation, and somatic resonance. We have your...

Sentinel Trauma is a one-time learning event which can leave a permanent imprint on the autonomic nervous system.    According to Dr. Stephen Porges, Sentinel Trauma is a single overwhelming event which the body-brain registers as life-threatening. This could be an accident, an assault, or a medical crisis. It is an "one-trial imprint" which results is the sudden re-calibration of autonomic state and neuroception. Sentinel Trauma is distinct from chronic stress and complex trauma. It is also separate from fear conditioning, which requires repetition. Sentinel Trauma, like Conditioned Taste Aversion, is a one-trial learning event which is highly resistant to...

  What is Biophilic Design?    Biophilic design is a concept that incorporates nature into the built environment to enhance the connection between people and the natural world, thereby improving physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This is achieved by integrating elements like natural light, vegetation, water features, and natural materials, as well as using designs that mimic natural forms, patterns, and spaces.  Many thanks to Dr. Niki Elliott who gave a very insightful presentation at the Polyvagal Institute gathering. I was especially interested in the concept of Biophilic Design as it relates to dogs and their nervous system regulation. Dr....

    If you feel your nervous system needs a reset, try one or more of the following: 1. Slow down. Gentle, mindful, and deliberate movements signal safety to your nervous system and the nervous systems around you. 2. Check in with your internal state, are you feeling flighty and stimulated, shut down and dissociated, or grounded and calm? Bringing awareness to your state can also bring compassion and understanding.  3. Give yourself a squeeze for containment, right hand under the left armpit, and left hand on the right shoulder. 4. Hum or sing your favorite song to self-soothe. 5....