Safe Sound Protocol

The Safe Sound Protocol (SSP) was invented by Stephen Porges, who was the creator and researcher of the polyvagal theory and neuroception. The theory has helped the trauma field to understand what happens within our nervous system when we experience something traumatic. The vagal nerve has an organized hierarchy that helps us adapt to our environment for survival. There is the Parasympathetic Nervous System/ Ventral Vagus, that is our system of safety and connection. Then the Sympathetic Nervous System, which is our system of mobilization or fight/flight. The oldest and last system is our Parasympathetic Nervous System/Dorsal Vagus, which is the system of immobilization. When we have experienced a lot of trauma in our life we often can no longer identify true danger because we are more in fight/flight/freeze mode in order to survive. This does not allow us to engage our Social Engagement System that allows us to have fulfilling and connected relationships in our lives.

Our neuroception is the way we identify what is safe or not and this is an unconscious process. This is why our responses are so fast and not in our conscious awareness.

The Safe Sound Protocol uses a multi-sensory program that uses music, breathing, meditation to help regulate the nervous system so that an individual is better able to cope with the demands of life. This system helps the nervous system to regulate and overall better brain functioning. Due to these changes an individual is then able to access the Social Engagement System to have more fulfilling relationships.

This has been shown to help with anxiety, depression, behavior regulation, difficulties with social connection, attention, memory, trauma and sleep. It has also been found the improve high blood pressure, chronic neck and shoulder tension, stomach problems, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, low blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, and increased vulnerability to illness.

This system consists of 5 hours of listening over an extended period and can be accessed through an app on your phone or tablet.

Please feel free to call with any questions you might have.