Before the brain can assemble thoughts and language, the nervous system initiates a response that moves us toward an experience and into connection, takes us into the mobilizing protection of fight and flight, or rescues us through shutdown and disconnection.

The experience of connection encompasses four domains: connection to self, connection to other people (and pets), connection to nature and the world around us, and connection to spirit. With connection we feel safely embodied, accompanied by others, at home in the environment, and in harmony with spirit.

Finally, around 200 million years ago, the other branch of the para-sympathetic nervous system, the ventral vagal system, came into being. The energy of this uniquely mammalian system allows us to feel safe, connect, and communicate. To feel into this system, remember sitting and talking with a friend, think about walking in nature feeling connecte

The Merriam-Webster online dictionary defines listening as “hearing something with thoughtful attention.”

Polyvagal Theory is the science of feeling safe enough to fall in love with life and take the risks of living.

In a ventral vagal state we can acknowledge distress, explore options, and reach out for and offer support. We are resourced and resourceful. Our attention is focused on connection to ourselves, to others, to the world, and to spirit.

formidable. If we put a problem aside and turn our attention toward learning how to shape our systems in the direction of safety and connection,

Our story, and how we think, feel, and act, begins with neuroception.

downregulate our threat reactions through the neuroception of safety.