Mirrored self-touch, within an IPNB perspective, can be understood through the lens of social engagement and regulation of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), particularly the ventral vagal pathway.
When one person mirrors another person’s self-touch or self-regulation modality, such as self-havening, it can have several implications from an IPNB perspective:
Co-regulation
Mirroring another person’s self-touch can facilitate co-regulation, which is the mutual regulation of physiological states between individuals. Co-regulation often involves the ventral vagal pathway, which is associated with social engagement and connection. When one person mimics another’s self-touch, it can create a sense of shared regulation, promoting feelings of safety and connection.
Vagal Regulation
Mirroring self-touch may stimulate the vagus nerve, particularly the ventral vagal complex, which is involved in social engagement and regulation of physiological arousal. By engaging in similar self-touch behaviors, individuals may activate their ventral vagal pathways, leading to a calming effect on the autonomic nervous system and promoting a sense of safety and relaxation.
Empathy and Connection
Mirrored self-touch can also foster empathy and connection between individuals. By mimicking another person’s self-regulation strategies, individuals demonstrate understanding and support, which can enhance feelings of empathy and connection. This mirroring behavior communicates a message of solidarity and shared experience, which can be particularly beneficial in interpersonal relationships and therapeutic settings.
Resonance and Mirror Neurons
The phenomenon of mirrored self-touch may also involve mirror neurons, which are specialized brain cells that fire both when an individual performs an action and when they observe someone else performing the same action. This neural mechanism enables individuals to resonate with each other’s experiences and behaviors, fostering a sense of shared understanding and connection.
Mirrored self-touch involves the mutual regulation of physiological states, activation of the ventral vagal pathway, promotion of empathy and connection, and engagement of mirror neuron mechanisms. By mirroring another person’s self-regulation modality, individuals can promote co-regulation, enhance social engagement, and foster a sense of connection and understanding.
