Sensate Yoga Move
S.Y.M© Perceived by the senses
Stanley Rosenberg has been doing body therapy for over 40 years and has been a pioneer bringing new form of therapy to Denmark. His work is recognized and followed by psychotherapists, doctors, bodyworkers, and caregivers all over the World.
"Accessing the Healing Power of the Vagus Nerve" excerpt
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The ventral branch of the vagus nerve relates to positive emotions of joy, satisfaction, and Love. In terms of behavior, it expresses itself in positive social activities with friends and loved ones. The state of social engagement supports social behaviors in which we support and share with other people. Cooperation with others usually improve our chances for survival - we talk together, sing together, dance together, share a meal, cooperate to complete a project, teach and nurture children, etc...
The second of the ANS's neural pathway is the spinal sympathetic chain, which is activated when our survival is threatened. If we mobilize our body with this response, we can make an extra effort to help us respond to the threat. This state of "mobilization with fear" arises when we are not safe, or do not feel safe. The spinal sympathetic chain relates to emotions of anger or fear, which can express themselves in behaviors such as fighting in order to overcome the threat or fleeing to avoid a threatening situation.
The third neural pathway is the dorsal branch of the vagus nerve. This pathway is activated when we face an overwhelming force and imminent destruction. When there is no point in fighting or running away, we conserve what resources we have- we immobilize. Activation of this pathway fosters feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and apathy, manifesting in withdrawal and shutdown. This state can be described as "immobilization with fear".