Book of the Month March 2023 - Polyvagal Card Deck

Polyvagal Card Deck: 58 Practices for Calm and Change by Deb Dana

I was delighted to be asked to review the Polyvagal Card Deck; 58 practices for Calm and Change, by Deb Dana, as I find her explanations of Stephen Porges’ Polyvagal Theory clear and accessible. 


She is one of the leading clinical translators of his theory and her understanding and ability to guide us through some complex concepts shines though this pack of cards.

In her introduction to the card deck Deb Dana explains how Polyvagal Theory has altered the way we understand the autonomic nervous system and the way it guides our responses as we move through our lives.  She succinctly explains important concepts such as Neuroception and the Autonomic Hierarchy which describes three autonomic response pathways including; ventral regulation when we feel safe and can engage with the world in a clam state, fight flight when feeling fearful, a system of mobilisation, and dorsal shut down when in fear of life. 

The cards have been categorised by each of these responses Ventral, Sympathetic and Dorsal.  There is also a Relational category which focuses on regulation and a Bonus section which focuses on stillness, change and play.  The categories are organised by gentle colours making it easy to identify which category is being addressed.  Each card has a title which gives us a glimpse of the concept that is going to be explored.  A significant concept is then explained, followed by a prompt and a tip.

The deck come in a neat, sturdy box which flips open at the top, inviting you in to take out the pack. The cards are of a great quality and feel lovely to hold.

They have been designed to support adults to understand Polyvagal Theory in relation to their own mental wellbeing.  As a Therapeutic Social Worker working in a CAMHS setting I have been using the Card Deck with parents and carers.   I have found it has helped them to gain a better understanding of the theory in relation to understanding themselves a little better, with a view to co-regulating their children. 

I am also a  PACE trainer supported by DDP Connects UK and have recently used these cards during the training to help participants connect Polyvagal Theory to themselves and the importance of self-regulation.  I have had great feedback from some of the activities outlined in the cards and  a lot of interest in having a further look at the deck.

Deb Dana does not disappoint with this card deck.  She has developed an ingenious way to experientially bring polyvagal theory into practice.  Whether you purchase these to use for yourself to support your own mental wellbeing or within your work setting, they will be a valuable resource.

Lesley Bell
Therapeutic Social Worker
MA (Hons) Psychology
BA Social Work
MSc Therapeutic skills with Young PeoplePolyvagal Card Deck: 58 Practices for Calm and Change

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