Polyvagal Theory
Meaning ❉ The Polyvagal Theory describes how our nervous system, via the vagus nerve, mediates our responses to safety and threat, profoundly impacting our well-being and shaping our connection to heritage.
Meaning ❉ Co-regulation, within the realm of textured hair, signifies a dynamic, responsive interaction between the individual and their unique strands, moving beyond rigid routines towards a fluid, attentive approach. It speaks to the discerning understanding of one’s hair—its distinct patterns, inherent porosity, and moisture requirements—allowing for an informed, adaptive relationship. This principle extends to hair care systematization, where established practices are not static commands but adaptable frameworks, akin to a self-adjusting mechanism that responds to the hair’s current state and environmental cues. Practical application involves the gentle observation of how strands react to various elements, from a particular humectant to the shift in atmospheric conditions, prompting subtle yet deliberate adjustments in product selection or technique. It is a continuous, gentle dialogue, where the hair’s signals are acknowledged, and care decisions are made in concert with its needs, promoting optimal vitality and respectful maintenance. This attunement ensures that Black and mixed-race hair, with its ancestral strength and varied expressions, receives precisely what it asks for, supporting a resilient, graceful existence.