02/06/2026
What is Polyvagal Theory? 🌿
Ever feel calm and connected one day, anxious and on edge the next, or completely exhausted and shut down? Polyvagal Theory offers a way of understanding why.
Developed by Stephen Porges, it focuses on the vagus nerve and how our nervous system responds to the world around us.
💚 Safe & Connected When we feel safe, we're more able to connect with others, think clearly, rest, digest, and recover.
âš¡ Fight or Flight When stress levels rise, we may feel anxious, restless, irritable, or constantly "on alert."
🛑 Freeze or Shutdown When overwhelmed, we can feel exhausted, numb, disconnected, or withdrawn.
The theory suggests that our nervous system is constantly scanning for cues of safety or danger, often without us even realising it.
For many women in perimenopause, hormonal changes can make the nervous system feel more reactive, leading to symptoms such as anxiety, poor sleep, and feeling "wired but tired."
Simple practices that may help support nervous system regulation include: ✨ Slow, steady breathing ✨ Gentle movement ✨ Humming, singing, or chanting ✨ Time with supportive people ✨ Rest and relaxation
Polyvagal Theory isn't accepted by all scientists in every detail, but many people find it a helpful framework for understanding their stress responses and learning ways to support their wellbeing.
'sHealth 🌿💚
