Polyvagal Theory, Touch & Manual Therapy

Polyvagal Theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, is a groundbreaking theory that explains how our autonomic nervous system (ANS) responds to stress and influences our social engagement. The theory highlights the role of the vagus nerve, which is a key component of the ANS.

Polyvagal Touch refers to the application of Polyvagal Theory principles in touch therapy practices. By incorporating touch techniques and interventions that support the regulation of the autonomic nervous system, Polyvagal Touch aims to enhance feelings of safety, promote social engagement, and facilitate healing and well-being.

In the workshop, you will explore various aspects of Polyvagal Touch, including understanding the theory’s fundamentals, practicing presence and intention, applying Polyvagal applications and exercises, restoring social engagement through breathwork and sounding techniques, and exploring the concept of co-regulation within the therapeutic relationship.

Through this workshop, you will gain valuable insights and practical tools to incorporate Polyvagal Touch into your therapeutic practice, fostering connection, safety, and healing for your clients.

Instructor: Steven Goldstein

I’ve been practicing and instructing manual, massage and holistic medicine since 1986. I truly believe that all of my work and training translates back to the work I do each and every day.  

Steven Goldstein ,  has a B.A. in Education 1984, B. Health Science in Musculoskeletal Therapy 2007, is an American émigré to Australia residing in Melbourne, Australia since 1999. An innovative massage educator since 1992, instructing internationally his unique blend of direct myofascial, indirect osteopathic releasing methods and somatic bodywork approaches since 1995 known as Fascial Therapy, and director of the Fascial Therapy Institute Australia.
Steven is a frequent presenter at conferences in North America, United Kingdom, Middle East, India & Australia including: Club Physio South Africa, NHP Canada, SMTO Scotland, Massage and Myotherapy Australia, Australian Traditional Medicine Society, IRMA Myotherapy Association, Olympic Soft-Tissue Injury Forum, and the Bowen Federation of Australia BTFA.

Contents

In Part 1, dive deep into the foundations of Polyvagal Theory during the enlightening session led by esteemed experts, Porges and Dana. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the theory’s principles and their application in the realm of touch therapy.

Part 2 invites you to explore the art of Practicing Presence and Intention, guided by the experienced duo, Jack Blackburn and Cynthia Price. Immerse yourself in concepts such as Presence, Intention, Grounding, Centering, and Loving Kindness. Learn how these profound elements can enhance your therapeutic presence and positively impact your clients’ well-being.

Prepare for an enriching journey through Polyvagal Applications & Exercises in Part 3. Delve into various techniques, including Support & Holding, Two Point/Fulcrums, Rosenberg’s Basic Exercise, and Fascial Therapy’s transformative Umbilical Fulcrum. Explore the intricacies of Cranial Base, Cranial Sutures, C1-C2 – TVP/Eye Movement, Jugular Foramen, Hyoid and Vocalization, Testing the Pharyngeal Branch of the Vagus Nerve, and the vital role of coordinating Five Diaphragms for regulating the ANS through Touch Transverse Planes and Cranial Base.

Part 4 ushers in a series of invigorating exercises designed to Restore Social Engagement. Immerse yourself in breathwork and explore various types of sounding and prosody, such as Sighing, Humming, and Chanting. Experience the transformative power of Bercelli Trauma Release and Caldwell’s Breath Awareness and Exercise, as you learn to facilitate healing through intentional touch.

Part 5, we delve into the realm of Interpersonal Neurobiology. Discover the Concept of Co-Regulating within the Therapeutic Relationship, empowering both you and your clients to experience profound feelings of safety. Explore the influential Micheal Shea Model, delve into the art of Therapeutic Presence, and embrace the transformative power of Bottom-Up Bifocal Integration.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to elevate your therapeutic practice and unlock new dimensions of healing through Polyvagal Touch. Secure your spot today and be a part of this groundbreaking workshop!

Limited spaces available. Reserve your place now to avoid disappointment.

Please be advised that the information provided regarding the workshop event, including dates, times, content, and conditions, is subject to change. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date details, circumstances beyond our control may necessitate modifications to the event.