Research & References

The Rooted Mother Method™ is informed by interdisciplinary research across neuroscience, psychology, trauma physiology, and developmental science.

The following scientists, researchers, and fields of study have contributed to the understanding of nervous system regulation, emotional resilience, and relational development that inform the philosophy and practices used in this program.

While The Rooted Mother Method™ is not a clinical therapy program, it integrates principles from the research below to support mothers in restoring nervous system steadiness and emotional capacity.

Nervous System Regulation & Polyvagal Theory

Research on the autonomic nervous system has helped deepen our understanding of how the body responds to stress and safety.

Stephen W. Porges, PhD
Polyvagal Theory and the neurobiology of safety

Key works:

Porges, S. W. (2011).
The Polyvagal Theory: Neurophysiological Foundations of Emotions, Attachment, Communication, and Self-Regulation.

Porges, S. W. (2022).
Polyvagal Safety: Attachment, Communication, Self-Regulation.

Polyvagal theory describes how the nervous system continuously evaluates cues of safety or danger and shifts between states that influence emotional regulation, social connection, and physiological stress responses.

Trauma Physiology & Somatic Approaches

Research in trauma physiology has demonstrated that stress and overwhelming experiences are often held within the body’s physiological systems.

Bessel van der Kolk, MD

van der Kolk, B. (2014).
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma.

Peter Levine, PhD

Levine, P. (2010).
In an Unspoken Voice: How the Body Releases Trauma and Restores Goodness.

These approaches emphasize the importance of body-based awareness and gentle somatic practices in restoring nervous system balance.

Interpersonal Neurobiology

Interpersonal neurobiology explores how relationships shape the brain and nervous system.

Daniel J. Siegel, MD

Siegel, D. J. (2012).
The Developing Mind: How Relationships and the Brain Interact to Shape Who We Are.

Siegel, D. J. (2010).
The Mindful Therapist.

Siegel introduced the concept of the Window of Tolerance, which describes the range of emotional activation within which individuals can function and respond effectively.

Expanding this window supports greater emotional resilience.

Attachment Science

Attachment theory provides foundational insight into how caregiver relationships shape emotional development and nervous system regulation.

John Bowlby, MD

Bowlby, J. (1969).
Attachment and Loss.

Mary Ainsworth, PhD

Ainsworth, M. D. S. (1978).
Patterns of Attachment.

Research in attachment science shows that responsive and regulated caregiving supports children in developing emotional security and self-regulation over time.

Co-Regulation & Parent–Child Development

Modern developmental neuroscience demonstrates that children learn emotional regulation through interaction with caregivers.

Allan Schore, PhD

Schore, A. (2001).
Effects of Early Relational Trauma on Right Brain Development.

Schore’s work highlights how early relational experiences shape the development of the nervous system and emotional regulation capacities.

Neuroplasticity

Research on neuroplasticity demonstrates that the brain and nervous system remain adaptable throughout life.

Norman Doidge, MD

Doidge, N. (2007).
The Brain That Changes Itself.

Repeated experiences of regulation and safety can gradually strengthen neural pathways associated with emotional resilience and stress recovery.

Stress Physiology & the HPA Axis

Chronic stress influences the body's hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, which regulates cortisol and other stress hormones.

Bruce McEwen, PhD

McEwen, B. (2007).
Physiology and Neurobiology of Stress and Adaptation.

This research highlights how prolonged stress can affect mood, cognition, immune function, and overall well-being.

Practices that restore nervous system balance can help reduce the physiological burden of chronic stress.

Maternal Nervous System & Parenting Research

Emerging research in maternal mental health highlights the significant nervous system demands of motherhood.

Sleep disruption, caregiving intensity, and emotional labor all influence stress regulation and maternal well-being.

Supporting maternal regulation can positively influence both mother and child.

Integrating Science with Practice

The Rooted Mother Method™ integrates these research-informed principles with practical, accessible nervous system practices designed specifically for mothers navigating the demands of modern life.

The intention of this work is to help mothers cultivate steadiness within their bodies so they can experience greater presence, resilience, and connection within their families.

Important Note…

The Rooted Mother Method™ is an educational coaching program and is not intended to diagnose or treat medical or psychological conditions.

Individuals experiencing significant mental health concerns are encouraged to seek support from qualified medical or mental health professionals.