Discover your body's neural pathways to calmness, safety, and
connection.
An intense conversation, a spat with a partner, or even an obnoxious
tweet--these situations aren't life-or-death, yet we often react as if
they are. That's because our bodies treat most perceived threats the
same way. Yet one approach has proven to be incredibly effective in
training our nervous system to stop overreacting and start responding to
the world with greater safety and ease: Polyvagal Theory.
In Anchored, expert teacher Deb Dana shares a down-to-earth
presentation of Polyvagal Theory, then brings the science to life with
practical, everyday ways to transform your relationship with your body.
Using field-tested techniques, Dana helps you master the skills to
become more aware of your nervous system moment to moment--and change
the way you respond to the great and small challenges of life.
Here, you'll explore:
- Polyvagal Theory--get to know the biology and function of your vagus
nerve, the highway of the nervous system
- Befriending Your Nervous System--attune to what's going on in your
body by developing your "neuroception"
- Using Your Vagal Brake--discover key techniques to consciously
regulate the intensity of your emotions
- Connection and Protection--learn to recognize and influence your
internal cues for safety and danger
- Your Social Engagement System--find ways to create nourishing
relationships with others and the world around you
- Practices and guidance to gently shape your nervous system for greater
resilience, intuition, safety, and wonder
Through guided imagery, meditation, self-inquiry, and more, Anchored
offers a practical user's manual for moving from a place of fear and
panic into a grounded space of balance and confidence. "Once we know how
our nervous system works, we can work with it," teaches Deb Dana. "We
can learn to access an embodied, biological resource that is always
present, available, and there to guide us toward well-being."