"Safety is an absence of threat PLUS a feeling of connection." Dr Stephen Porges

We need fulfilling relationships to have fulfilling lives.

We make bids for attention. Watch the Still Face Experiment on YouTube to see this in play.

Parents aren't always able to meet our bids for attention for a variety of reasons.

Emotional neglect is a major source of trauma, of disconnection from ourselves, our sense of value and the present moment

The pace of our lives contributes to this sense of disconnection. We all know this experience.

Children experience disconnection as proof there is something wrong with them

We only need about 30% of attuned connection with a child.

Co-regulating and calming down happens with animals as well as people - dogs, horses, cats.

We need to be around other people who are emotionally self-regulated. Reach out to other safe people.

We can co-regulate through watching movies and series like Heartland where we feel connected to the characters.

Widen your window of tolerance through these practices

As we heal our nervous systems, we're able to go out into the world and connect with people.

Take small risks. Connect. Set boundaries. Be realistic. Hang out with calmer people. Support your nervous system.

For a happy life, we need meaningful, kind, authentic relationships.

Are you holding back because of fear? Use everything in this course to build your resilience and strength.