What Is the Dorsal Vagal State and How Do You Respond?
Aug 1, 2025 · The dorsal vagal state is a primitive survival mechanism, often called a “freeze” or “shutdown” response. This state occurs when the nervous system perceives an overwhelming threat, …
Understanding the Freeze Response and Dorsal Vagal Shutdown
Nov 22, 2024 · Unlike the freeze response, where there is still some physiological readiness, dorsal vagal shutdown involves a complete withdrawal from the situation. This is the nervous system’s way …
Understanding Dorsal Vagal Shutdown in Trauma
Nov 5, 2025 · According to the polyvagal theory, the vagus nerve consists of three distinct branches: ventral vagal, sympathetic, and dorsal vagal. While the ventral vagal branch promotes social …
What is the Dorsal Vagal Nervous System State? | NEUROFIT
Feb 23, 2025 · The Dorsal Vagal state is one of the three primary states of the autonomic nervous system, as described by Dr. Stephen Porges' Polyvagal Theory. This state is part of the …
Dorsal Vagal Shutdown | Neurodivergent Insights
Apr 10, 2024 · According to Polyvagal Theory, in extreme cases of stress, the dorsal (back) branch of the vagus nerve can initiate a shutdown response, leading to a state of immobilization or numbness.
Polyvagal Theory 101: What Dorsal Vagal Shutdown Looks Like ...
The dorsal vagal system is your body’s ancient safety mechanism. When your brain perceives something as too overwhelming, it shuts down to protect you—just like a circuit breaker.
Dorsal Vagal Shutdown: A Holistic Approach to Recovery and ...
Jan 7, 2025 · A: The dorsal vagal shutdown, often referred to as the 'freeze response,' is a physiological state triggered by the dorsal branch of the vagus nerve when an individual experiences extreme …