In the context of Polyvagal Theory, bliss can be understood as a unique, harmonious state where both the ventral and dorsal vagal systems are engaged in a balanced manner, leading to a sense of profound well-being and connectedness. This nuanced state is distinct from the activation of the ventral vagal system alone, which is typically associated with feelings of safety, social engagement, and calmness but may not reach the depths of bliss experienced when both systems are balanced.

Ventral Vagal Activation: A Foundation for Well-being

• Ventral Vagal State: Activation of the ventral vagus nerve, part of the parasympathetic nervous system, signals the body and brain that the environment is safe, allowing for a state of relaxation and social engagement. This state fosters openness, flexibility, and a sense of well-being, enabling individuals to engage with others, problem-solve effectively, and approach life with a sense of compassion and possibility. While this state is conducive to positive experiences and feelings, it might not encompass the profound depth of bliss on its own.

Blended Ventral and Dorsal Activation: The Pathway to Bliss

• Blended State of Ventral and Dorsal Vagal Activation: Bliss, in the context of Polyvagal Theory, is described as a blend of ventral and dorsal vagal activations. This state combines the ventral vagus nerve's capacity for safety and social connection with the dorsal vagus nerve's ability to promote deep inner calm and restfulness.

• Characteristics of Bliss: In this blended state, an individual experiences not only the external engagement and safety provided by ventral activation but also an internal sense of profound peace and stillness, typically associated with dorsal activation. However, unlike the complete withdrawal or shutdown that can occur with dorsal activation alone in response to overwhelming stress, this blended state maintains ventral vagal engagement, ensuring that the stillness is not a disconnection but a peaceful grounding.

Experiencing Bliss in Social Contexts

• The experience of bliss, especially in social or performance contexts like giving speeches, involves a delicate balance where one feels deeply connected to the audience (ventral activation) while also being anchored in an internal state of calm and presence (dorsal activation). This state allows for a flow-like experience, where there is a seamless integration of engagement with others and personal inner peace, leading to what can be described as a state of ecstatic presence or bliss.

Empowerment through Awareness of Alternatives

• The realization of alternatives, as discussed in the context of futures work, can be a powerful moment of awakening for many individuals. When people recognize that they have choices and can envision preferred futures, it often leads to emotional responses and a sense of empowerment. This awareness can be particularly transformative for those who have felt trapped in constraining circumstances, as it opens up new pathways for engagement and change, potentially fostering states of well-being and even bliss as individuals reconnect with a sense of agency and possibility.

In summary, Polyvagal Theory provides a framework for understanding bliss as a state where the safety and connection of ventral vagal activation are enriched by the deep inner peace of dorsal vagal engagement, creating a profound sense of well-being that transcends ordinary experiences of calm or safety.

This state is comparable to a profound bliss. As we note there is a tendency of the person to lean backwards in connection with the dorsal state activation