Polyvagal Pathways to Connection: Part 1

In episode 77, Chris and Emma were joined by Autum Romano, an educator, bodyworker, and author from Colorado Springs, CO. This is the first in a two-part conversation exploring polyvagal theory and its relevance to personality development, healing, and human connection. Autum brings 28+ years of experience in the healing arts and a rich understanding of the nervous system. Together, we dive into the basics of polyvagal theory—including the three autonomic states (ventral, sympathetic, and dorsal), neuroception, and co-regulation—and connect it with Dąbrowski’s theory of positive disintegration. Topics include: * How our nervous system shapes our experience and reactions * Using body-based tools for nervous system regulation * Understanding fight, flight, and freeze responses in relationships * Recognizing your dominant pattern and learning to move between states * How safety, connection, and emotional healing are intertwined * The overlap between polyvagal theory and Dabrowskian development * Personal stories about trauma responses, self-awareness, and growth Autum’s insights offer a compassionate, grounded lens on how to support development—not by avoiding dysregulation, but by learning to move through it with awareness. Whether you’re new to polyvagal theory or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode offers something valuable. Stay tuned for Part 2, where the conversation continues. Links from this episode Autum’s website Body Wisdom and the Polyvagal Theory Connect with us * Positive Disintegration on Substack * Visit the Dabrowski Center website * Facebook * Instagram * The Positive Disintegration YouTube Channel * Adults with Overexcitabilities group on Facebook * The Tragic Gift blog by Emma * Email us at [email protected] * Please consider donating to the Dabrowski Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. * Find Positive Disintegration Merch If you enjoyed this episode on Apple or Spotify, please remember to click on the stars and leave a rating or write a review. Thank you! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.positivedisintegration.org/subscribe