Reptilian brain · Threat Response
Polyvagal Ventral Vagal State
Porges's term for the calm, socially engaged state in which people can think and connect; the clinical use is helpful, the underlying theory is contested.
An everyday example
A negotiation that goes well because both sides feel safe enough to think.
What it can cost you
Believing a state of calm proves the situation is safe, or that a technique guarantees it.
Warning signs
- I am calm because of how they made me feel.
- I skipped the check because the mood was good.
One thing to do
Create calm before deciding — breathing, pace, setting — and still verify the substance.
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