The Sensitivity Doctor

How to Soothe Your Nervous System the Polyvagal Way with Michael Allison

Episode Summary

In this episode of The Sensitivity Doctor, Dr. Amelia Kelley speaks with Michael Allison, a leading expert on Polyvagal Theory, wellness, and performance. Together, they dive into the science behind nervous system regulation, the profound impacts of trauma, and how Polyvagal Theory offers a framework for healing, leadership, and thriving in daily life. Michael shares how Polyvagal Theory can transform our understanding of trauma, leadership, and performance, offering tools to foster safety and trust within ourselves and others. Whether you’re navigating personal challenges, aiming to elevate your performance, or simply looking to better understand your own nervous system, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

Episode Notes

Key takeaways:

• Trauma is not about the event itself but the body’s reaction and its inability to recover, which can lock the nervous system into states of dis-ease.
• Effective leadership stems from fostering trust and safety, whether in parenting, coaching, or workplace settings.
• Small practices, like scanning your environment for safety cues, can regulate your nervous system and bring a sense of grounding.
• High achievers thrive when they operate in a safe physiological state, where effort meets ease and challenges become opportunities.
• Recognizing how your body feels moment-to-moment helps in understanding triggers and developing resilience.

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