Polyvagal theory and pain care

January 23, 2020 12:00PM      

Chronic pain can negatively influence how our autonomic nervous system (ANS) functions. Dysregulated states of the ANS can contribute to altered or pathological physiological, emotional, and behavioural states.

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In this webinar, Marlysa Sullivan, PT, C-IAYT, ERYT-500 will discuss different methods by which the ANS can be positively regulated to help manage pain, including the Polyvagal theory, yoga and the cultivation of eudaimonic well-being. The Polyvagal theory helps to illuminate the mind-body connections that influence our regulation and activation of the ANS, which can help promote healthy physiological, calm psychological, and positive social behavioral states. Eudaimonic well-being is an ancient philosophical concept that encompasses meaning, purpose, social connection, and alignment with one’s values. This perspective on well-being has demonstrated positive physical and mental health benefits, including controlling pain intensity, pain interference, and pain medication usage.

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Marlysa Sullivan

PT, C-IAYT, ERYT-500

Marlysa Sullivan PT, C-IAYT, ERYT-500 is an assistant professor of integrative health sciences and yoga therapy at Maryland University of Integrative Health. She is the co-author of Yoga and Science in Pain Care and author of Understanding Yoga Therapy: Applied Philosophy and Science for Well-being. Her research and clinical interests have focused on the intersection of the wisdom tradition of yoga with current biomedical and scientific understandings in working with the chronic pain populations.