Presented by Ashley Turner (source)

The Vagus Nerve

• Also known as the “Wandering Nerve”
  • Connects to most vital organs
    • From the brain through the face and thorax to the abdomen
    • Carries information from the gut, liver, heart and lungs to the brain
  • Mediator of our parasympathetic (rest & digest) response 
  • Influences breathing, digestion and heart rate
    • Sends message to slow down heart rate
      • Releases: acetylcholine (a calming chemical) 
• Listen to: Polyvagal Theory with Dr. Stephen Porges to learn more about the different branches of the vagus

5 Ways to Tone the Vagus Nerve

1. Deep Belly Breathing: lengthen the inhale + exhale; calms, tones + soothes the vagus nerve
   • e.g., Meditation 🧘🏾‍♀️

2. Chanting: singing or chanting are great ways to tone the vagus nerve
   • e.g., Singing songs from your favourite Spotify playlist 🎵
3. Spinal Flexion: massages the vagus nerve
   • e.g., Yoga (cat/cow, seated spinal movements) 🌸
4. Belly Laughing: increases circulation, blood flow, tones diagram + strengthens the vagus nerve
   • e.g., Watch comedies 😂
5. Splash Face: tones your vagus nerve in the morning and resets/wakes up your nervous system
   • e.g., Splash face and eyes in the morning with cool water 💦

Why Tone the Vagus Nerve?

• Decreases stress and anxiety (activates rest & digest system)
• Deepens breathing
• Lowers heart rate and increases circulation in the body
• Opens emotional capacity (feeling grounded and lighter)

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Ready to get started?

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This website is provided only for informational purposes and not intended to be used to replace professional advice, treatment or professional care. Always speak to your physician, healthcare provider or pediatrician if you have concerns about your own health or the health of a child.