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166: Revisiting Polyvagal Theory: Expert Insights with Valerie Knopik, PhD
You have probably heard of the vagus nerve, and (whether you realize it or not) been exposed to some of the concepts of Polyvagal Theory in yoga classes. In fact, we have discussed the theory in a previous episode of the podcast.
In today’s episode, host Rachel Land and Yoga Medicine Therapeutic Specialist Valerie Knopik PhD, revisit Polyvagal Theory and explore the latest scientific debate it has generated. They break down the original framework, the newer criticisms, and the ways scientific ideas evolve over time.
The conversation stays grounded in real-world teaching, especially around stress response, breath, and the role of relationships in helping people feel safe enough to practice. It is a thoughtful reminder that research can shift while the practical value of awareness, connection, and regulation remains central to yoga.
“Science is never stagnant and thats part of the beauty of science for me.” — Valerie Knopik
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“We can still take really clear takeaways from it that I think are helpful as science scientists continue to debate the perfection of it or not.” — Valerie Knopik
Show Notes:
- Vagus nerve roles in stress and relaxation response [3:24]
- Recent papers updating and challenging Polyvagal Theory (PVT) [4:41]
- The nature of the scientific method [7:12]
- Defining PVT [10:37]
- Summarizing the current controversy: over-simplification of dorsal vs ventral vagus [25:29]
- Other points of contention: dorsal vagal and trauma response, heart rate variability as a measure of vagal tone, clinical over-use [31:41]
- Relevance to yoga teaching and practice [37:11]
- The “science of safety” in yoga; Yoga Medicine Mental Health & Wellness Teacher Training [44:00]
Links Mentioned:
- Watch this episode on YouTube
- Mental Health & Wellness Online Training
- Porges SW. Polyvagal Theory: Current Status, Clinical Applications, and Future Directions. Clin Neuropsychiatry. 2025 Jun;22(3):169-184. doi: 10.36131/cnfioritieditore20250301. PMID: 40735382; PMCID: PMC12302812. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12302812/
- Grossman P et al. Why The Polyvagal Theory Is Untenable: An international expert evaluation of the polyvagal theory and commentary upon Porges, S.W. (2025). Clin. Neuropsychiatry, 22(3), 169-184. Clin Neuropsychiatry. 2026 Feb;23(1):100-112. doi: 10.36131/cnfioritieditore20260110. PMID: 41768017; PMCID: PMC12937499. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12937499/
- Previous Yoga Medicine® Podcast Episodes:
- Connect with Valerie Knopik:
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“The social cues like my facial expression, for example, are just as important as the words that I say, the sequence I create, the props that I offer.” — Rachel Land
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