Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)

The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a non-invasive listening therapy designed to help regulate your nervous system and promote a sense of safety and connection. Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, SSP is grounded in the principles of polyvagal theory, which explains how the nervous system influences emotions, behaviour, and social engagement. By using specially filtered music to gently stimulate the vagus nerve, SSP helps you reduce stress, improve emotional regulation, and feel more at ease in your body and relationships.

What SSP Can Offer You

SSP is tailored to support individuals of all ages who face challenges related to stress, anxiety, trauma, or sensory sensitivities. Key benefits include:

Nervous System Regulation

SSP helps shift your nervous system from a state of fight, flight, or freeze into a calmer, more balanced state, supporting your overall well-being.

Improved Emotional Regulation

By fostering a sense of safety, SSP enhances your ability to manage emotions, respond to stress, and feel more grounded.

Enhanced Social Connection

SSP promotes feelings of safety and trust, making it easier to engage in meaningful relationships and interact with others with confidence.

Core Principles of SSP

SSP is rooted in polyvagal theory, which highlights the role of the vagus nerve in regulating the nervous system. Key concepts include:

The Role of the Vagus Nerve: The vagus nerve influences your physiological and emotional responses to stress. SSP’s gentle auditory stimulation helps activate the ventral vagal pathway, associated with safety and connection.

Listening as a Pathway to Healing: SSP uses music filtered to emphasise certain frequencies, particularly those related to the human voice. This process helps your nervous system recalibrate and respond more effectively to your environment.

Gradual, Individualised Approach: SSP is designed to be introduced slowly and at your own pace, ensuring that the experience is comfortable and supportive.

How SSP Works and What to Expect

SSP involves listening to specially designed music over a series of sessions, often with the guidance of a trained practitioner:

Preparation: Before starting SSP, you’ll discuss your goals and current challenges with your facilitator, ensuring the protocol is customised to your needs.

Listening Sessions: Over 5–10 days, you’ll listen to about 30–60 minutes of filtered music each day, either at home or in a therapist’s office. These sessions may be accompanied by relaxation exercises or quiet activities to help you stay calm and focused.

Integration: After completing the listening sessions, you’ll have time to reflect on changes and continue to integrate the benefits into your daily life. Follow-up support from your facilitator can help you maintain progress.

How SSP Can Benefit You

With consistent use, the Safe and Sound Protocol may help you:

• Feel calmer and more secure by reducing the physiological effects of stress and trauma;
• Enhance your ability to connect with others, improving social interactions and relationships;
• Manage sensory sensitivities and feel more comfortable in your environment;
• Build resilience by strengthening your nervous system’s capacity to adapt and recover from challenges.

If you’re ready to explore a gentle, science-backed approach to feeling more at ease in your body and relationships, SSP offers a pathway to greater calm, connection, and resilience.