Description
OUR POLYVAGAL WORLD
Book Summary
This book brings the revolutionary polyvagal theory, developed by Stephen Porges in 1994, to the general public. For the first time, its fundamental concepts are explained clearly and accessibly, free from scientific jargon. Co-authored with his son Seth Porges, the work demonstrates how the sense of safety directly influences our health and well-being, offering practical applications for anyone wishing to live more fully and happily. A hopeful and transformative approach to trauma and human connection.
What is it about?
Polyvagal theory posits that our autonomic nervous system does not just manage basic functions, but also constantly interprets the level of safety in our environment. This interpretation, which is often unconscious, directly impacts our physical and mental health, as well as our ability to relate to others. The book breaks down the principles of this theory, explaining how the vagus nerve and its three neural circuits (ventral, sympathetic, and dorsal) determine our responses to stress, anxiety, and trauma. Through examples and practical applications, the authors show how we can learn to regulate our nervous system to improve our quality of life, foster resilience, and build safer and more authentic relationships.
Key Themes
- Polyvagal theory: fundamental principles and the functioning of the autonomic nervous system.
- Neuroception: the unconscious process of detecting safety and danger.
- Emotional regulation and stress management from a neurobiological perspective.
- The role of the vagus nerve in health, social connection, and well-being.
- Practical applications of polyvagal theory for daily life and trauma therapy.
Who is it recommended for?
This book is aimed at anyone interested in understanding how their nervous system works and how it influences their emotional and physical well-being. It is especially useful for those seeking tools to manage anxiety, chronic stress, or the aftermath of trauma. It will also be of great value to therapists, psychologists, educators, and health professionals who wish to integrate a neurobiological perspective into their work, as well as curious readers who want to explore an optimistic and hopeful vision of human nature.
What this book offers
- A clear and accessible understanding of a complex scientific theory, with no prior training required.
- Practical tools to identify and regulate the nervous system's automatic responses.
- A framework for understanding the origin of many emotional and behavioral reactions, fostering self-compassion.
- A hopeful perspective that shows how safety and connection are the foundation of a full and healthy life.
- The possibility of applying polyvagal principles in personal relationships and personal development.
Technical Specifications
- Author: PORGES, STEPHEN W.; PORGES, SETH
- Publisher: EDITORIAL ELEFTHERIA S L
- Language: Spanish
- Subject: PSYCHOLOGY, PHYSIOLOGICAL PSYCHOLOGY AND NEUROPSYCHOLOGY, BIOPSYCHO
- Collection: ATROPOS
- Edition date: March 2026
- Number of pages: 268
- Weight: 754 g
Editorial Review
This work represents a milestone in the popularization of polyvagal theory, making it accessible without losing rigor. Its main value lies in bridging the gap between scientific research and daily application, offering the reader not only knowledge, but also a practical tool to improve their well-being. The collaboration between the creator of the theory and a communicator ensures a clear, enjoyable, and deeply useful text, ideal both for professionals and for anyone in search of a more connected and secure life.