Coming Home to Yourself: Vagus Nerve Yoga Workshop

Vagus Nerve Yoga is rooted in the Polyvagal Theory by Dr. Stephen Porges. It weaves the traditional teachings of yoga with the understanding of the vagus nerve, which plays a central role in our emotional and physical wellbeing.

The vagus nerve extends from the brainstem downinto our stomach and intestines, passing through our heart and lungs, and connecting our throat and facial muscles. It regulates our sense of safety and connection with ourselves and the world.

Through the practice of certain yoga postures, conscious breathing techniques, mindfulness & vagal toning exercises, we work with the body towards reclaiming safety, resilience, inner power, connection (to self, others and the world) and opening to love. This approach is rooted in nonviolence and compassion inviting gentleness, curiosity, choice& freedom guiding you towards a deeper sense of self-understanding, trust and authenticity.

The goal of a Vagus Nerve Yoga is to increase flexibility of the nervous system. Yoga increases vagal tone, stress reduction& supports trauma recovery. The practice offers an opportunity to become skilled at moving between sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems with greater ease and choice.  

What to Expect in This Workshop:

●    Learning: A practical exploration of the function of the nervous system and the vagus nerve (the Polyvagal Theory)

●    Presence: Cultivate presence and connection by curiously exploring physical sensations, emotions and thoughts.

●    Choice & Safety: A sense of inner safety is the foundation for coming back home to yourself, healing and transformation. We cultivate safety in the nervous system through choice. You are invited to move through the practice with freedom to opt-in or opt-out attuning to your own needs and honouring them.

●    Embodiment : Explore the mind-body connection through polyvagal-informed yogic practices including conscious breathing, physical postures, vagal toning exercises to reconnect with the body’s inherent wisdom.

●    Community Connection : Feel supported and held by the community with space for sharing and learning together.

Who is this workshop for?

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This workshop is open to all. The practices offered will be mat based with chair modifications offered if needed.

Vagus Nerve yoga can be especially beneficial if you:

●    Experience symptoms of anxiety, trauma, PTSD, dissociation or dysregulation.

●    Experience chronic stress/ pain/ fatigue or overwhelm

●    Are looking to develop more compassion and kindness towards yourself

●    Want to learn more about your body’s wisdom and establish connection with deeper parts of yourself

You are welcome to join just as you are.

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