Justin Sunseri discusses transitioning from a prolonged state of shutdown to experiencing freeze. He explains the differences between shutdown and freeze through the lens of polyvagal theory, and provides insights into the healing process. Justin discusses the importance of building a safety state and how to mindfully connect with different states of defense. He also introduces his new course 'Stillness to Sympathetic,' designed to help individuals harness emerging sympathetic activation for meaningful goals. Viewer questions and feedback are encouraged.
00:00 Introduction and Viewer Question
01:02 Understanding Shutdown and Freeze
03:11 The Process of Coming Out of Shutdown
10:42 Mindfulness of Safety State
12:15 Mindfulness of Defensive State
15:34 Got a question?
SNB: Books 1 & 2 - https://www.justinlmft.com/books
Resources:
🔸 Free resources and course in the Members Center - https://www.justinlmft.com/members
🔸 SNB: Total Access Membership - https://www.justinlmft.com/totalaccess
🔸 Polyvagal Intro webpage - https://www.justinlmft.com/polyvagalintro
About the Host: Justin Sunseri is a therapist and coach committed to helping you live with calm, confidence, and connection—no psychobabble, no woo-woo. Justin is the author of the Stuck Not Broken book series, a member of the Polyvagal Institute's Editorial Board, a father of two, and a husband.
Crisis Resources:
- National Suicide Prevention Hotline - 1 (800) 273-8255
- National Domestic Violence Hotline -1 (800) 799-7233
- LGBT Trevor Project Lifeline - 1 (866) 488-7386
- National Sexual Assault Hotline - 1 (800) 656-4673
- Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741741
- Call 911 for emergency
Disclaimer: This and other content produced by Justin Sunseri (“JustinLMFT”) (i.e; podcast, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) is not therapy, not intended to be therapy or be a replacement for therapy. Nothing in this creates or indicates a therapeutic relationship. Please consult with your therapist or seek for one in your area if you are experiencing mental health symptoms. Nothing should be construed to be specific life advice; it is for educational and entertainment purposes only.
Justin Sunseri is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist registered in the State of California (99147).
#polyvagaltheory #shutdown #dorsalvagal