Relax by resetting the Vagus Nerve
Some time ago, I came across an ad about managing everyday stress by focusing on the vagus nerve. Intrigued, I decided to delve deeper into the functions of this essential nerve and share my findings with a close friend who was going through a particularly stressful period. She had never heard of it before, and my own knowledge was limited beyond the fact that it is part of the autonomic nervous system—which controls automatic bodily reactions to stress, such as an increased heart rate and rapid breathing.
I experienced firsthand the power of this nerve when I was diagnosed with vasovagal syncope. In my case, severe stress or pain—triggered by a local anesthetic—caused an exaggerated nervous system response, leading to nausea, dizziness, and fainting.
What Is the Vagus Nerve and Why Is It Important?
The vagus nerve originates in the brainstem, roughly where the neck meets the skull, and extends all the way to the intestines, passing through the aorta, throat, and heart. It plays a crucial role in regulating vital bodily functions such as digestion, heart rate, and breathing.
For instance, at the heart level, damage to certain parts of the vagus nerve can cause conditions such as bradycardia (an abnormally slow heart rate) when overstimulated, or tachycardia (a rapid heart rate) when it slows down due to disease.
Research has also linked vagus nerve dysfunction to serious digestive issues, including gastroparesis—a condition where stomach muscles contract irregularly, leading to indigestion, acid reflux, and fluctuating blood sugar levels.
Neurologists are actively studying the vagus nerve and experimenting with electrical stimulation to send targeted signals to the brain. This technique has shown promise in treating cluster headaches, depression, and even Alzheimer’s disease.
How to Reset Your Vagus Nerve
As a yoga practitioner, I regularly engage in breathing exercises to help reset my vagus nerve. Since stress affects breathing, specific pranayama techniques and meditation can help regulate the autonomic nervous system. Diaphragmatic breathing techniques, in particular, have been shown to enhance mood, promote happiness, and reduce inflammation.
When I feel particularly stressed, one of the first things I do is sit down and practice deep breathing exercises. Just 10 minutes can make a significant difference and help melt stress away. One of my favorite techniques comes from Glo, my go-to yoga resource. Additionally, certain yoga poses can aid in resetting the vagus nerve, providing a sense of calm and relaxation: here is one which I think is very calming and soothing.
After my practice, I often enjoy a calming latte from Tusol infused with cocoa, ashwagandha and reishi, adaptogens known for their ability to support the nervous system.
Give these techniques a try and let us know how they work for you!
