Dr. Stephen Porges is the man who discovered Heart Rate Variability (HRV) in the 1960's and created the Polyvagal Theory - a model to explain how we function and operate.

Thanks to Dr. Porges, this episode of the OPP is full of wisdom to help us understand our neurophysiology, how the Vagus Nerve impacts heart rate, HRV, emotional resiliency and how we can use that knowledge to optimize mental and physical performance.

We cover:

- How Dr. Porges discovered Hear Rate Variability (HRV)

- Breathing does change parameters of HRV

- Focus on tasks with metrics of success

- The good scientist knows to learn from others

- The only way the science moves ahead is through the feedback

- What is the best way for us to measure HRV?

- The Pocket Guide to Polyvagal Theory: The Transformative Power of Feeling Safe

- Why the saying "scared shitless" is a real thing

- Neuroception vs. Perception

- Addressing the relevance of Polyvagal Theory in mammals

- The vagus Nerve, trauma and mobilization

- Once we identify the system, the mechanism, then we can intervene in ways to optimize those mechanisms

- Being comfortable with stillness

- Translating theoretical work into practice

- How far can we push the window and when we hit the wall how do we use that information to define or redefine us

- Why Dr. Porges say our nervous system is waiting for Johnny Mathis

- Dr. Porges's Top 3 Tips to Live Optimal