Polyvagal Theory: What Is Your Nervous System? Part 1 episode artwork

EPISODE · Aug 19, 2026 · 42 MIN

Polyvagal Theory: What Is Your Nervous System? Part 1

from Wise Mind: A DBT Podcast · host Wise Mind: A DBT Podcast

Polyvagal Theory: Part 1 - What Is Your Nervous System Doing?In this episode, we introduce Polyvagal Theory and explore how understanding our nervous system can help us make sense of our emotions, behaviours and responses to stress.We discuss the nervous system ladder, the concepts of ventral vagal, sympathetic and dorsal vagal states, and how these relate to our window of tolerance. We also take a critical look at Polyvagal Theory, exploring some of the scientific debate and criticisms surrounding it.Most importantly, we turn the focus towards ourselves — learning to notice the signs that our nervous system is becoming activated or shutting down, recognising our individual cues, and exploring ways we can move towards greater regulation, connection and flexibility.A practical introduction to understanding what your nervous system is doing, why it matters, and how you can begin to notice your own nervous system states.If you enjoy the episode, please like, follow, subscribe, leave a review, and share to help support the podcast.Wanting more weekly wise Mind?! For bonus episodes and exclusive resources every week, join us on Patreon, the link via wisemindcollective.com.au.Contact us:⁠www.wisemindcollective.com.au⁠wisemindcollective.com.auInstagram + Facebook + TIK TOK - Wisemind: A DBT PodcastCrisis SupportThis space may include discussions that bring up strong emotions or difficult topics. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, please know you're not alone and support is available.If you or someone you know is in crisis, we encourage you to reach out to:Lifeline – 13 11 14 (24/7)Beyond Blue – 1300 22 463613YARN – 13 92 76 (A 24/7 national support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)Emergency Services – 000 (if you are in immediate danger)Acknowledgment of Dr. Marsha M. Linehan and the Origins of DBTWe honor Dr. Marsha M. Linehan, psychologist and professor who created Dialectical Behavior Therapy.It’s thanks to Dr. Linehan that DBT has become a proven intervention for a range of mental health challenges.Wise Mind A DBT Podcast gratefully acknowledges that DBT is Dr. Linehan’s work, not ours, and we honor her legacy.

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Polyvagal Theory: What Is Your Nervous System? Part 1

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