"A person does not hear sound only through the ears; he hears sound through every pore of the body. It permeates the entire being, and according to its particular influence, either slows or quickens the rhythm of the blood circulation; it either awakens or soothes the nervous system"

Hazrat Inayat Khan

Safe and Sound Protocol

What is Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)? 

The Safe and Sounds Protocol (SSP) is a therapeutic intervention developed by Dr. Stephen Porges. It is based on the Polyvagal Theory, which emphasizes the importance of the vagus nerve regulating our autonomic nervous system and our ability to feel safe and socially engaged. 

The SSP aims to regulate the autonomic nervous system by stimulating the middle ear muscles, which are linked to the vagus nerve, and sends calming signals to the brainstem. This process is believed to help regulate the autonomic nervous system, reduce stress responses, and improve social engagement and emotional regulation. It is typically administered over a series of sessions by a trained therapist. 

Therapists complete a 9-hour course featuring Stephen Porges, Deb Dana, and other leading clinicians. 

SSP is effective for those who suffer from:

  • Anxiety and Depression 
  • Physical, sexual, emotional, and spiritual trauma
  • Sensory Sensitivities 
  • Sleep Issues 
  • Social Difficulties 
  • Dysregulated Nervous System
  • Chronic illnesses/syndromes 

How does SSP Help Heal? 

  1. Regulating the Nervous System: SSP is designed to stimulate the middle ear muscles, which are linked to the vagus nerve. By engaging the ANS, the SSP aims to reduce hyperarousal or hypervigilance and promotes a state of calm associated with trauma and stress.  
  2. Improving Emotional Regulation: By working with physiological responses, the SSP may also contribute to improved emotional regulation. This can be beneficial for individuals who experience heightened emotional responses or have difficulty managing their emotions. 
  3. Facilitating Neuroplasticity: The SSP’s auditory stimulation is thought to promote neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize itself and form new neural connections. This may help individuals respond effectively and adapt to their environment, leading to improved functioning and well-being. 
  4. Reducing Sensory Sensitivities: SSP may help desensitize individuals who are hypersensitive to certain sensory inputs, such as sound. By gradually exposing them to specific auditory stimuli in a safe and controlled way. SSP aims to reduce sensitivities and improve sensory processing. 
  5. Enhancing Social Engagement: The SSP can help improve social engagement by promoting the physiological state conducive to social interaction and connection. 

SSP helps individuals by engaging the autonomic nervous system, specifically targeting the vagus nerve through auditory stimulation, to promote regulation and social engagement, and reduce hyperarousal and sensory sensitivities. 

Learn More about SSP