Wellness
The Dorsal Vagal State Explained
Discover the dorsal vagal state, a nervous system response of shutdown or "freeze" and why understanding it is key for modern mental wellness.
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What is it?
The dorsal vagal state is a physiological response rooted in Dr. Stephen Porges' Polyvagal Theory. It describes a state of shutdown, collapse, or "freeze" our nervous system enters when it perceives an overwhelming threat or life-or-death danger. This is the most primitive part of our vagus nerve's response system, which immobilizes us to conserve energy and survive. It's an involuntary survival mechanism, not a conscious choice. When activated, it can make us feel numb, disconnected, and dissociated from our surroundings and emotions.
Why is it trending?
Awareness of the dorsal vagal state is growing in wellness and mental health circles as a way to understand trauma, anxiety, and burnout. Polyvagal Theory provides a biological map for feelings that were previously hard to explain, like chronic fatigue or emotional numbness. Therapists, coaches, and individuals are using this knowledge to identify different nervous system states. This framework moves beyond pathologizing these feelings and instead views them as adaptive responses, offering a more compassionate approach to healing and self-regulation.
How does it affect people?
When a person is in a dorsal vagal state, they can experience profound exhaustion, brain fog, hopelessness, and a feeling of being disconnected from their body. Physically, it might manifest as low blood pressure, poor digestion, and a lack of expressive facial features. Understanding this state helps people recognize their body's response to stress without judgment. It empowers them to learn gentle techniques, like mindful breathing or co-regulation with a safe person, to help their nervous system shift back towards a state of safety and social engagement (the ventral vagal state).