Polyvagal Safety provides an understanding that the important role of 'safety' in our lives is dependent on autonomic state, and that our cognitive evaluations of risk in the environment, including identifying potentially dangerous relationships, play a secondary role to our visceral reactions to people and places.

This book examines these principles in multiple areas, from mindfulness to pediatric medical trauma to autism and the significance of stillness. It also examines the COVID-19 pandemic in light of its fundamental challenge to our nervous system. Polyvagal-informed strategies have led the way toward a new science of healing and Porges's work is essential reading for all wellness professionals.