02/20/2026
Intrigue, Anger or Despair?
Which arises when you read this today?
If you are in the 'nervous system healing practitioner space' your feeds are right full of 'The Polyvagal Theory isn't based on science' posts. For some, it may feel like a foundational pillar of a bridge we travel on everyday has been diagnosed as unstable. And its natural for uncertainty to trigger some activation. (Thus all the posts!)
Bit scary when these things happen in life...normal to feel 'up in arms' or 'hopeless' about it (wink wink, check yourself).
The 'science' of why practices work has always fascinated me (provides important cognitive context) - just ask any of my teachers how many 'but why' questions I ask in trainings.
AND all the 'knowledge' doesn't trump the wisdom of lived experience. Well facilitated body and breath-based practices work. Zero debate.
I haven't dove into 'the research paper debunking PVT' myself yet but I am looking forward to take on it on Monday night (b/c I trust she's done the full nerd-out and I prefer to gather perpsectives from trusted sources not my algrithm).
This is just one more reminder for me that I can be deeply devoted to my work without getting too attached to theories, models, or teachers. Personally I'm reflecting 'Where am I doing that?'
And where are you?
Let's all stay curious about emerging perspectives, be excited about new bridges (despite the re-construction process) & devoted to our own agency while we help our clients find theirs.
