About this episode

Dr. Caroline discusses the relevance of breathing and mindfulness in light of evolving theories about the nervous system and emotion regulation.

Is Polyvagal Theory still the best way to understand anxiety, stress, and emotion regulation? In this episode of Overpowering Emotions, Dr. Caroline explores what current science says about the nervous system and why many researchers are moving toward newer models like the Neurovisceral Integration Model (NIM). You'll learn how the brain, body, gut, immune system, and emotions work together, why heart rate variability matters, and what actually helps people regulate big emotions. Dr. Caroline breaks down complex neuroscience into practical, everyday language and explains why tools like breathing, mindfulness, movement, and co-regulation still matter, even when the explanations behind them change. This conversation also connects closely with the Anxiety Compass Framework, particularly the ideas of regulation-first, capacity-before-skill, and understanding when emotional struggles stem from a capacity limitation rather than a skill deficit. If you've ever wondered whether the science behind nervous system regulation is changing, this episode offers an evidence-based update and practical takeaways you can use right away. Listen now to discover what the latest research says about…

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Caroline Buzanko

Topics covered

• anxiety
• stress
• emotion regulation
• nervous system
• breathing techniques
• mindfulness
• neuroscience

Keywords

• anxiety management
• stress relief
• emotional regulation
• heart rate variability
• neuroscience
• mindfulness practices
• breathing techniques

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Polyvagal Theory, Neurovisceral Integration Model, Anxiety Compass Framework

More episodes of Overpowering Emotions: Tools for Child & Teen Anxiety and Resilience

• 250. When every emotion feels bigger than the situation, mindfulness can change what happens next · July 21, 2026 · 15 min
• 249. Could Better Sleep and More Movement Be the Missing Piece in Your Child's Emotional Regulation? · July 14, 2026 · 29 min
• 248. Why Your Child Falls Apart Over Small Things | The Missing Piece of Emotional Regulation · July 7, 2026 · 26 min
• 246. Is Polyvagal Theory Misleading Us About Anxiety? · June 23, 2026 · 31 min

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