About this episode

Vanessa explores the nature of fear and how healing involves becoming less afraid of it rather than striving for a state of fearlessness.

If you have ever felt fear in your body and then immediately made that fear mean something bad about you, this episode is for you. Vanessa explores fear not as something to conquer, transcend, or shame, but as something ancient, intelligent, protective, and deeply human. Through polyvagal theory, Buddhist psychology, the teaching of the first and second arrow, RAIN practice, and self-compassion, we look at what changes when we stop treating fear like the enemy. Healing is not becoming fearless; it is becoming less afraid of fear itself, so you can stay with yourself when it arrives. Reference Links: Stephen Porges — Polyvagal Theory Use for: Polyvagal theory, autonomic regulation, and the nervous system’s safety/danger responses. Link: https://www.stephenporges.com/ Note: Stephen Porges developed polyvagal theory, which is referenced in the episode to explain why fear often arises before conscious thought can intervene. Polyvagal Institute — What Is Polyvagal Theory? Use for: Accessible overview of polyvagal theory and autonomic regulation. Link: https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/whatispolyvagaltheory Note: Helpful general explainer for producers/listeners who want a basic…

People in this episode

Host: Vanessa Bennett

Topics covered

• fear
• healing
• polyvagal theory
• self-compassion
• Buddhist psychology

Keywords

• fear
• healing
• polyvagal theory
• self-compassion
• Buddhist psychology
• RAIN practice
• neuroception

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Gamut Podcast Network, Polyvagal Institute

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