9. Polyvagal Theory 1 – Introduction

About This Lesson

This is the first lesson in a five-part series on Polyvagal Theory, an important concept in the Mulry Method. This lesson introduces how the nervous system responds to stress and provides a foundation for understanding emotional regulation and behavior.

Whether you are following the 10-Step Self-Care Guide or beginning with this lesson, Polyvagal Theory offers a framework for understanding how your nervous system influences your responses to different situations.

Have you ever wondered why you feel safe and connected in some situations but anxious or shut down in others? Polyvagal Theory explores how the nervous system responds to stress, emotions, and social interactions.

This lesson introduces the science behind:

• Fight-or-Flight responses
• Freeze states
• Social Engagement

You will also learn about the role of the Vagus Nerve and how nervous system regulation supports greater calm, connection, and resilience.

All In The Zone Skills Training Lessons

• 1. In The Zone Skills Training – Introduction
• 2. Relaxed Moves
• 3. Soft Stomach Breathing
• 4. Position of Comfort and Relaxation Therapy
• 5. Autonomic Nervous System
• 6. Relaxed Flow vs Stress and Tension
• 7. Power Moves
• 8. Power Breathing Routine
• 10. Polyvagal Theory 2 – Mind-Body Integration
• 11. Polyvagal Theory 3 – The Vagus Nerve
• 12. Social Learning Theory 1 – Introduction
• 13. Social Learning Theory 2 – How To Maximize Success
• 14. Social Learning Theory 3 – How Perception Shapes Behavior
• 15. Social Learning Theory 4 – Expanding Constructs
• 16. Social Learning Theory 5 – The Language Of Science
• 17. Social Learning Theory 6 – Internal and External Locus of Control
• 18. Social Learning Theory 7 – Reward Value & Self-Navigation
• 19. Social Learning Theory 8 – Become A Self-Learner
• 20. Social Learning Theory 9 – Self-Navigation
• 21. Social Learning Theory 10 – Applying SLT
• 22. Social Learning Theory 11 – Be Your Own Coach
• 23. Social Learning Theory 12 – Reward Value
• 24. Social Learning Theory 13 – Behavior Potential
• 25. Social Learning Theory 14 – Expectancy
• 26. Social Learning Theory 15 – Psychological Situation
• 27. Elastic Moves
• 28. Basic Stretching Routine
• 29. Advanced Stretching Routine
• 30. Total Readiness Routine
• 31. Focused Moves
• 32. Healthy Back Exercises – Section One
• 33. Healthy Back Exercises – Section Two
• 34. Healthy Back Exercises – Section Three
• 35. Healthy Back Exercises – Advanced Back Routine
• 36. Position of Strength Transfers
• 37. Polyvagal Theory 4 – Expectancy and Neuroception
• 38. Polyvagal Theory 5 – Integration
• 39. Skills Review
• 40. Welcome To The Mulry Method
• Foundational Research & Theoretical Sources