In one of the recent episodes of “Did She Just Say Chakra?” Nichole and I dive into the fascinating world of the Vagus Nerve, exploring its crucial role in our overall health and well-being. We highlight how this unique nerve, originating in the brainstem and extending throughout the body, impacts everything from digestion and heart rate to stress response and even athletic performance.
What is the Vagus Nerve?
Think of the vagus nerve as your body’s internal superhighway. It’s the longest cranial nerve and the only one that travels from the brainstem down through the neck, chest, and abdomen, connecting to major organs like the heart, lungs, spleen, liver, kidneys, gallbladder, and digestive system. Often referred to as the “nerve of compassion” or the “thriving nerve,” it plays a key role in the communication between the brain and the body.
The Two Sides of the Coin: Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic
The podcast emphasizes the vagus nerve’s connection to the parasympathetic nervous system (PSNS), often called the “rest and digest” system. They clearly explain the difference between the PSNS and the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), or the “fight or flight” response. While the SNS kicks in during stressful situations, preparing the body for action, the PSNS promotes relaxation, recovery, and essential functions like digestion. The vagus nerve is a major player in activating the PSNS, helping to bring the body back to a state of calm and balance after stress.
Why Should You Care About Your Vagus Nerve?
Nichole and I share a compelling story about someone who struggled with severe health issues, including digestive problems and chronic fatigue, and ultimately found relief by addressing the function of their Vagus Nerve. This highlights the profound impact this nerve can have on various aspects of health.
We discuss how stress, in its various forms (emotional, psychological, biochemical, and physical), can negatively affect the vagus nerve. Biochemical stress, in particular, is noted as being influenced by food, toxins, viruses, and bacteria – a relevant point in today’s health-conscious world. Even what we consume visually and audibly, like social media, can contribute to stress impacting the Vagus Nerve.
Simple Ways to Tone Your Vagus Nerve:
The episode then shifts to practical tips for “toning” the vagus nerve, which isn’t just about relaxation but about improving its function and resilience. They suggest incorporating these simple practices into your daily routine:
- Breathwork: Consciously focusing on your breath, perhaps with longer exhales, can signal to your body to relax. The hosts suggest visualizing releasing negativity with each exhale.
- Massage and Touch: Massaging areas like the neck, shoulders, and even along the spinal cord can stimulate the vagus nerve.
- Humming, Singing, and Using Your Voice: These activities naturally slow down your breathing and can create a sense of safety and well-being.
- Cold Exposure: Short bursts of cold, like a cold shower, can stimulate the vagus nerve.
- Chanting: Sounds like “Om” can activate the vagus nerve.
- Laughter: This is a joyful and effective way to activate the parasympathetic nervous system.
- Meditation and Journaling: These practices can help bring awareness to your body’s needs and reduce stress.
- Somatics: Gentle movements that help release stored tension and trauma in the body. The hosts emphasize the importance of movement for vagal nerve stimulation and releasing held emotions.
- Gargling: Surprisingly, gargling can stimulate the vagus nerve due to its proximity to the inner ear.
- Acupuncture and Acupressure: These practices can help facilitate communication within the body and potentially benefit the vagus nerve.
The Benefits of a Well-Toned Vagus Nerve:
By actively working to support your vagus nerve, you can experience a range of benefits, including:
- Increased energy levels
- Improved digestion
- Reduced pain and inflammation
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Enhanced athletic performance
Listen to Your Body:
The podcast concludes by emphasizing the importance of listening to your body’s signals once the communication pathways are open and functioning well. This includes recognizing your needs for rest, specific foods, or movement.
Final Thoughts:
This episode of “Did She Just Say Chakra?” provides a valuable introduction to the Vagus Nerve and empowers listeners with practical, easy-to-implement techniques to improve their health and well-being. By understanding and nurturing this vital nerve, we can unlock our body’s potential for healing, resilience, and overall vitality. So, start humming, try some breathwork, or even take a quick cold shower – your Vagus Nerve will thank you!
