Believe it or not, there is a silver bullet within our body that can balance all organs and emotions. And we can stimulate it. In return, it offers calmness (and all the ensuing benefits).
Behold, His Majesty—the VAGUS NERVE.
What Is the Vagus Nerve?
The vagus nerve is one of the twelve cranial nerves in our body, which, in simple terms, connect our brain to the rest of our body (the well-known mind-body connection).
It is the tenth cranial nerve, akin to the number playmakers in soccer wear on their jerseys, highlighting its importance.
“Vagus” in Latin means “wanderer.”
Originating near our medulla and brainstem area, it connects to all our organs and is part of the Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS), responsible for inducing a relaxed state.
Naturally activated during rest, a toned and active vagus nerve makes us feel relaxed.
Problems with the vagus nerve can lead to issues with anxiety, depression, blood pressure, sleep, heart rate, rhythm, and digestion.
That “gut feeling”? That’s the vagus nerve at work.
Vagal Tone
A robust vagal tone means an active vagus nerve, signaling good overall health and a functional mind-body connection.
A healthy vagal tone enables faster relaxation after stress, proper digestion, optimal heart rate variability (HRV), slower heartbeats per minute (BPM), and ideal blood pressure (BP).
In short, all is well.
Activation
There are several methods to activate and tone the vagus nerve, some of which we already use unwittingly.
These activities make us feel better, yet many don’t realize they are stimulating the vagus nerve.
Which activities?
Washing your face with cold water in the morning, loud singing, proper breathing, sometimes taking cold showers, exercising, laughing, humming, meditation, and prayer.
Supplementing with probiotics and omega-3 fatty acids has also shown significant results. For other techniques like socializing and massage, company is necessary.
Furthermore, techniques from our younger years, albeit odd and inconvenient, like loud gargling, filling the mouth with saliva, and sometimes simulating vomiting (that gag reflex also stimulates the Vagus), were inadvertently activating the vagus nerve.
Nutshell
Stimulating our vagus nerve is a swift and straightforward method to boost our well-being.
Employing some of these methods can quickly alter your mood and, over time, might even relieve anxiety and some minor medical conditions.
One thing is certain: we can find time to stimulate our vagus and integrate it into our daily routines.
Combining face washing with cold water and gargling should become part of our morning ritual.
Not to mention daily doses of loud singing, laughing, slow breathing, and socializing.
These are the simplest methods. If comfortable, you can delve into your past and rediscover other, long-forgotten techniques.
Our body and mind will be grateful.
