Level 1: The Science of Nervous System Regulation
A practial, education-based framework for understanding trauma, safety, and the body
Understanding the body is a foundation for healing, resilience, and belonging.
Overview
Level 1 introduces the foundational science of nervous system regulation. It is designed to help people understand how the body responds to stress and trauma, and why regulation begins with physiology rather than willpower.
This educational framework is grounded in established neuroscience and somatic principles and is accessible to the general public. No prior experience or clinical background is required.
Purpose
The purpose of Level 1 is to provide clear, practical understanding of how the nervous system functions under stress.
By the end of this level, participants will be able to:
Recognize common nervous system responses
Understand stress and trauma as physiological processes
Distinguish regulation from suppression
Develop a more compassionate and accurate understanding of their own responses
This level focuses on orientation and understanding, not treatment.
Who This Is For
Level 1 is designed for:
Adults seeking a science-based understanding of stress and trauma
Parents, caregivers, and community members
Educators, organizers, and helping professionals
Anyone wanting practical language for what their body is doing under stress.
No diagnosis, disclosure, or personal history is required to engage with this material.
What This Is / Is Not
This program IS:
Educational and informational
Science-informed and body-based
Grounded in physiology and lived experience
Appropriate for public and community education
This program is NOT:
Therapy or counseling
Medical or psychological treatment
Crisis intervention
A replacement for licensed care
Core Concepts Covered
Level 1 introduces the following foundational concepts:
The autonomic nervous system (ANS)
Fight, flight, freeze, and shutdown responses
Stress, trauma, and survival physiology
Regulation versus suppression
Safety as a physiological state
Why trauma responses are adaptive, not pathological
The role of breath, movement, nourishment, and environment in regulation
This level emphasizes understanding before technique.
Format
Level 1 is designed as a flexible educational offering that may include:
Short lessons and written materials
Visual diagrams and simple explanations
Public-facing resources
Self-paced learning options
Specific formats may evolve as the program develops and as community needs inform its growth.
Ethical Scope & Disclaimer
This framework is offered as public education only. It does not diagnose, treat, or cure any medical or mental health condition.
Participants are encourage to seek licensed medical or mental health support when appropriate and to engage with this material at their own pace and discretion.
Relationship to Our Broader Work
Understanding nervous system regulation is foundational to all of our work.
Safety, nourishment, rhythm, and agency are essential conditions for healing. This is why our community initiatives focus on practical support such as food access, land connection, and education alongside spiritual care.
Level 1 provides the shared language and understanding that supports both our community programs and faith-based offerings.