The Vagus Diaries

The Science of Connection and Softening

Exploring the intersection of somatic exploration, nervous system regulation, polyvagal theory, and trauma healing, this blog offers neuroscience-backed insights into vagal nerve function, neuromodulation, co-regulation, self-regulation, and somatic practices that support emotional regulation, stress resilience, and deep healing.

Learn how your autonomic nervous system influences attachment, connection, and your sense of inner safety. Discover evidence-based approaches to nervous system healing and flexibility, vagal tone optimization, building capacity for presence, and expanding your window of tolerance by understanding the biology of trauma and recovery.

Whether you're interested in polyvagal theory applications, somatic experiencing, or the neuroscience of human connection, these posts bridge scientific research with practical wisdom for those seeking to heal their relationship with inner safety, self, and others.

The Beautiful Human Reflections in this blog explore the science of connection and nervous system healing through trauma-informed insights, somatic practices, and compassionate psychology, helping you soften stress, restore safety, and live with deeper emotional resilience and presence. 

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Neuromodulation Through Touch: Facial and Vagus Nerve Massage for Nervous System Regulation

Neuromodulation Through Touch: Facial and Vagus Nerve Massage for Nervous System Regulation

Alessandrina Dorer
Published on: 09/01/2026

Learn how direct vagal stimulation through facial and chest massage creates immediate nervous system shifts. Science-backed techniques for accessing your vagus nerve to regulate activation, shutdown, and chronic stress patterns.

Nervous System Healing
How Presence Teaches Presence: The Neuroscience of Co-Regulation

How Presence Teaches Presence: The Neuroscience of Co-Regulation

Alessandrina Dorer
Published on: 05/01/2026

Your nervous system learns safety through presence, not words. Discover how co-regulation rewires dysregulation and why your calm is more effective and supportive more than advice.

Nervous System Healing
What If This Year Was Simply About Coming Home to Yourself And Loving Yourself More?

What If This Year Was Simply About Coming Home to Yourself And Loving Yourself More?

Alessandrina Dorer
Published on: 30/12/2025

A gentle reflection on nervous system–based self-love, self-regulation through self-care, and what becomes possible when you come home to yourself.

Nervous System Healing
My Favorite Self-Regulation Tools: What Works Best When Your Nervous System Needs Support

My Favorite Self-Regulation Tools: What Works Best When Your Nervous System Needs Support

Alessandrina Dorer
Published on: 25/12/2025

In this blog post, I'll be sharing some of the self-regulation practices that have genuinely changed how I meet myself in moments of dysregulation and come back a beautifully regulated nervous system and expanded window of tolerance.

Nervous System Healing