I am so honored to travel this human experience with others; starting a shift toward lightness.

My inspiration for today’s post and intention behind my posts arises from a lecture by Deb Dana LCSW. Dana describes the importance and need for connecting through the lens of the Polyvagal Theory. A shorthand review of the expansive Polyvagal Theory; there are 3 responses of our nervous system which are the ventral, sympathetic, and dorsal responses. A ventral response is one that allows us to feel safe, connected, grounded, and content. A sympathetic response is when we are trying to assess a situation or emotion and determining fight, flight, or freeze, a period of adjustment. The dorsal state is when we move into a lingering state of survival or elevated stress, and the fight, flight or freeze incapacitates our typical coping mechanisms creating disconnect, dis-ease, and isolation.

Everyone travels through these three neurological responses in an attempt to keep ourselves safe. When there is not balance in this Polyvagal system, there is disregulation. Dana offers skills and tools in response to our reactions to assist in creating neuro-balance.

A tool Dana utilizes in her personal and professional practice for connection and pursuit of more time with ventral response is noticing the glimmers (the good, the moments of awe). Acknowledging and noticing glimmers helps us to be present and grounded toward a ventral response, the safe space of our nervous system. Other ways to ease our vagal response are to sing or hum to yourself, taking a cold shower, walking in nature, sharing physical affection, shaking or dancing, or playing with your pet.

The intention for my blog will be to spread the glimmers in whatever form they take (a giggle, play, support, acts of kindness, stillness, nature, good recipes, new knowledge, or moments through the lens of a child). I will also share interesting practices and the evidence behind Yoga and Reiki practices. Once a month, for a year.