# Polyvagal theory

Polyvagal theory, proposed by Stephen Porges in 1995, posits that distinct vagal branches — a phylogenetically newer ventral-vagal complex and an older dorsal vagal pathway — evolved in mammals to support social engagement versus shutdown/freeze responses. It is widely used in trauma therapy and somatic practice, but its comparative-neuroanatomy and evolutionary claims have been substantively challenged in peer-reviewed work (Grossman & Taylor 2007; Grossman 2023), and mainstream neuroscience does not treat it as established. The well-supported finding that vagal tone (HRV) and breathing influence health does not depend on polyvagal theory and should not be conflated with it.

## Sources

- Porges SW. (1995). Orienting in a defensive world: mammalian modifications of our evolutionary heritage. A polyvagal theory. Psychophysiology. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1469-8986.1995.tb01213.x

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_Canonical: https://longevity-germany.com/en/glossary/polyvagal-theory · Part of Longevity Cities · Updated 2026-05-02_