Mindfulness-Based Movement: A Polyvagal Perspective

Abstract

Compelling evidence suggests that physical activity is an effective intervention for cancer survivors, including for those undergoing active cancer treatments. However, to date most evidence has emerged from interventions that have promoted moderate to vigorous physical activity. In this conceptual review, we argue that attention should be given to the entire continuum of physical activity from reducing sedentary behavior to increasing higher levels of physical activity when possible. In addition, considerable evidence in the cancer literature supports the value of mindfulness-based interventions as a means of helping patients and survivors cope with the variety of threats that accompany this disease. Based on the success of these two areas of research, we argue for conceptualizing and promoting physical activity as Mindfulness-Based Movement, using Polyvagal Theory as a theoretical framework to understand the role and value of Mindfulness-Based Movement as a potential intervention for cancer care and control.

A Systematic Review of Associations Between Interoception, Vagal Tone, and Emotional Regulation: Potential Applications for Mental Health, Wellbeing, Psychological Flexibility, and Chronic Conditions

“…In doing this, when safe and calm environments are detected, the vagus nerve inhibits primitive defense reflexes of the sympathetic system in favor of metabolically more efficient and soothing functions. When this soothing “social-engagement system” is active there is often an increase in efficient situational judgement, flexible behavioral responses and pro-social traits such as the distension of facial muscles, modulation of speech tone, and greater reception of voices (Lucas et al, 2018 ). These effects can facilitate individuals into organized societies and communitarian structures, providing an advantage for the survival of the species (Porges and Center, 2018 ).…”

Effects of Mindfulness-Based Therapy on Clinical Symptoms and DNA Methylation in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and High Metabolic Risk

“…Allexandre and colleagues reported statistically significant differences in the normative population in emotional well-being, emotional role functioning, and energy [ 81 ]. A mindfulness-based intervention for cancer survivors at metabolic risk reported by Lucas and colleagues showed statistically significant change in RAND-36 subscales for physical well-being but not for psychological well-being [ 82 ]. It is likely that mindfulness-based interventions influence psychological and physical well-being in a nonlinear manner.…”

Effective communication with participants in court hearings: using polyvagal theory in the courtroom

“…Despite encouraging findings and a compelling theoretical rationale, supporting evidence for the application of polyvagal theory remains limited. Much of the evidence supporting the use of the polyvagal theory in the courtroom is derived from other fields such as body based interventions for trauma care (Levine et al, 2018;Porges, 2011), managing traumatic stress (Kolacz et al, 2018), yoga (Sullivan et al, 2018), psychotherapy (Austin et al, 2007), sensorimotor psychotherapy (Buckley et al, 2018;Nguyen-Feng et al, 2019;Levine, 2010), dance movement therapy (Krug, 2018;Gray, 2018), mindfulness based movement in cancer survivors (Lucas et al, 2018), and other fields. While there is evidence to support its use, more research is needed on the effects and application of polyvagal theory applied to the courtroom.…”