Here, for the first time, is a layperson’s explanation of polyvagal theory, an approach to mental health and well-being that has taken the clinical world by storm. A polyvagal approach to life is based on the knowledge that the autonomic nervous system is shaped by early experience and reshaped with ongoing experience. This short book will offer an overview for nonspecialist readers and provide a series of exercises and meditations (practices) that will allow readers to tune into their nervous systems, providing calming prompts to build and strengthen ventral vagal connections.

This book includes a never-before-published comprehensive chapter on polyvagal theory, preceded by exercises that focus on mapping, reflecting, listening, deepening, creating, and connecting. Readers who want to change a pattern and find new rhythm for their nervous systems can use this material to work toward those goals.