The longest and most complex nerve in the body is known as the vagus nerve. It is a key player in the mind-body connection. Vagus nerve dysregulation is a key feature in the presentation of trauma. Learning how to support vagus nerve health fosters a more integrative and wholistic approach to healing from the negative impacts of stress, neglect, and adversity. When human services leaders and practitioners know how to regulate internal states by way of the mind-body connection, they access the more advanced regions of the human brain required for mobilizing positive change. These systems are necessary for critical thinking, creative problem solving, cooperative teamwork, and resilience to adversity.
This science-backed workshop shares recent findings from the fields of mind-body medicine, psychoneuroimmunology, resilience, interpersonal neurobiology and trauma as they relate to leadership and practice in human services. Participants will explore the role of the mind-body connection and the vagus nerve in psychological and physical health, well-being and human performance. Mind-body tools for resilience and vagus nerve health will be shared and practiced.
After attending this training, participants will be able to:
- Describe the vagus nerve and its role in human health and well-being
- Explore the links between the vagus nerve and trauma
- Define the mind-body connection and how it connects to human behavior and resilience
- Create a plan for integrating the learning into self-care & professional development