The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a non-invasive, auditory intervention developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, a neuroscientist and professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.
The SSP is designed to reduce stress and auditory sensitivity while enhancing social engagement and resilience. It is based on Dr. Porges’ Polyvagal Theory, which suggests that the vagus nerve plays a key role in regulating the autonomic nervous system (ANS).
The SSP involves listening to specially filtered music through headphones for a total of five hours over the course of five days. The music is designed to stimulate the vagus nerve, which helps to calm the nervous system and promote a state of safety and well-being.
What can SSP help with?
The SSP has been shown to be effective in reducing auditory sensitivity, anxiety, and social difficulties in children and adults with a variety of conditions, including autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and sensory processing disorder.
The SSP is a safe and effective intervention that can be used to improve the lives of people with a variety of conditions. It is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment that does not require any special preparation or equipment.
Benefits of the SSP
The SSP is a gentle and relaxing experience. People who have undergone the SSP report feeling calmer, more relaxed, and more connected to others. Some people also report feeling more energized and motivated.
Some benefits include:
- Reduced auditory sensitivity
- Improved social engagement
- Increased resilience
- Reduced anxiety
- Improved sleep
- Improved focus and attention
The SSP works by stimulating the vagus nerve, which is a major nerve that runs from the brain to the gut. The vagus nerve plays a role in regulating the ANS, which is responsible for our fight-or-flight response. When the vagus nerve is stimulated, it helps to calm the nervous system and promote a state of relaxation.
If you’re ready to activate your vagus nerve to help regulate your nervous system, contact us to meet with one of our trained therapists today!
