APA Webinar ~ Ayurveda & the Autonomic Nervous System

Thursday, 27 March 2025 19:00 - 20:00 GMT

Online

Join the APA for the upcoming APA webinar on Ayurveda and the Autonomic Nervous System: Exploring Trigunas from the Polyvagal Perspective by Anu Paavola.

This webinar examines the intersections between the concepts of the Trigunas—Sattva (balance), Rajas (activity), and Tamas (inertia)—and modern understandings of the autonomic nervous system, mainly through the lens of Polyvagal Theory. Polyvagal Theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, describes how different branches of the autonomic nervous system—sympathetic (mobilising) and parasympathetic (calming or immobilising)—affect emotional and physiological responses. Ayurveda’s Trigunas, which represent the dynamic qualities that influence mind and body states, have intriguing parallels to those described in Polyvagal Theory.

This interdisciplinary exploration reveals how Sattva aligns with the ventral vagal state, fostering calm and connection, while Rajas corresponds to sympathetic arousal, driving action and alertness. Tamas, associated with immobility or lethargy, resonates with the dorsal vagal response, where energy is conserved under threat or fatigue. By connecting these frameworks, we gain deeper insight into Ayurveda’s timeless wisdom on mental and physical balance, enriched by a polyvagal understanding of how these mind-body states adapt to stress and restore equilibrium. Integrating these insights can deepen therapeutic approaches in both Ayurveda and contemporary mind-body health practices.

About the Speaker - Anu Paavola, (B.Sc. Hons) Ayurveda

Anu is the owner of Jivita Ayurveda clinic and spa in Kensal Rise, London. She is the director of Jivita Academy of Ayurveda and currently studying for her Master’s degree in UCL in Pain Management.

Anu Paavola, (B.Sc. Hons) Ayurveda, is the owner of Jivita Ayurveda clinic and spa in Kensal Rise, London. She is the director of Jivita Academy of Ayurveda and currently studying for her Master’s degree in UCL in Pain Management.

Anu is a published author and runs educational wellbeing events both at grassroots community and corporate levels. Anu’s passion is to translate the ancient wisdom into shared language and practice in her areas of influence that also include retreats in the UK and abroad.

Incorporating her over twenty-five years of practice and teaching of yoga, Anu’s approach to healing is almost unique to anywhere in London or the UK.

Accessing the webinar

Please note that all the webinar participants will receive a link to the Zoom webinar via email on March 27th. To access the webinar, click on the Zoom link sent to your email from info@apa.uk.com. Please note that you do NOT need to enter the event via the Eventbrite page.

Please add the APA email address to your email contact list: info@apa.uk.com. Also, please check your Spam folder if you cannot see the email in your Inbox.

Video Recordings

Please note that you require a video recording of this webinar; you will need to purchase a separate video recording ticket via the Eventbrite page. All the video recording ticket holders will receive a copy of the video within 48 hours of the event. The live webinar ticket is only for a live event and does not include the recording.