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The Polyvagal Theory for Yoga Teachers


How Stephen Porges’ Polyvagal Theory (PVT) underlies our perception, informs our actions and influences the quality of our relationships and our lives.

The Polyvagal Theory is a scientifically grounded view of the autonomic nervous system that integrates what we understand evolutionarily and physiologically and creates a state of inquiry with modern day pathophysiology and specifically, clinical psychology. Stephen Porges, PhD has elucidated a continuum of nervous system expression with a refined range of possible expressions that extend beyond fight/flight or rest/digest, while honoring and appreciating the body’s innate wisdom.

The objective of this six week online course is to distill the polyvagal theory (aka the science of connection) in a scientifically sound manner into a language that meets the needs of a yoga teacher to seamlessly integrate the PVT into teaching group classes and individual sessions, creating the conditions for long-term, sustainable wellness for themselves, their clients and their communities. Specifically, the gunas will be explored in relationship to the PVT.

Course Schedule

Course Kickoff (Mar 21)

Week 1 (Mar 28): Context for the Polyvagal Theory and Yoga

Week 2 (Apr 4): The Landscape of the Polyvagal Theory

Week 3 (Apr 11): Neuroception

Week 4 (Apr 18): Mapping the Nervous System

Week 5 (Apr 25): Attuning with the Polyvagal Theory

Week 6 (May 2): Cultivating the Conditions

Enrollment Includes:

  • PDF Manual with References

  • Glossary

  • Recommended Reading

  • Weekly recorded lecture (approximately 25 minutes)

  • Weekly, Saturday 10am (PST), Zoom-hosted (virtual) meeting meant for clarifications, review and community discussion.

  • Ability to download all course materials for lifetime access.

Prerequisites: None. All learners are welcome.

Recommended Text:

The Pocket Guide to the Polyvagal Theory: The Transformative Power of Feeling Safe by Stephen Porges

Continuing Education Units: None are offered at this time.

Enrollment Fees

$300 Course + Scholarship: Payment for course, receive additional videos with guided practice and subsidize someone’s learning.

$200 Course: Payment for course.

$50 x 3 payments Course Subsidized: Payment for course subsidized by another learner.

FREE: For a limited number of course enrollees. Email me at jennifer.samore@gmail.com for code.

All enrollment fees are non-refundable.

Website to Enroll and for Course Materials

Enrollment closes Mar 26 at 11:59pm

Earlier Event: March 10
Science + Yoga Party
Later Event: August 29
The Hierarchy of the Nervous System