As the unpredictability in the world and the “stay at home” period is expanding around the world, it seems to be getting a bit more challenging for many of us to stay grounded. This interview with Dr. Porges, creator of the polyvagal theory, and Virginia Spellman from STAR Institute in Denver, about ways to nourish our nervous system was very comforting.
Our nervous systems like predictability and want cues of safety. However, when we are told to create social distance in our interactions with others for our physical safety, our nervous systems get very stressed. Dr. Porges provided some very concrete and doable ways for us all to co-regulate with each other in our own safe bubbles and with others outside of our bubble. Within our own bubble
- Hugging and reciprocal games like peek a boo and hide n seek
- Singing Karaoke
- Playing musical instruments
- Playing board and movement games mindfully and fully present
- Blowing bubbles
Outside our bubble
- Finding ways to reach out over the internet to connect
- Videoconferencing with family and friends
- Being fully present during calls and giving cues of safety with our facial expressions and voice tone
For a deeper dive, check out the video below and be sure to check out the infographic and maybe even put it up on the fridge as a reminder.
https://www.spdstar.org/node/1507
