The Vagus Nerve
The Tenth Cranial Nerve
The name “vagus” comes from the Latin term for “wandering.” The vagus nerve wanders from the brain into the organs in the neck, chest, and abdomen. It is also referred to as the 10th cranial nerve and is the longest and most complex of the cranial nerves.
The vagus nerve is a powerful tool for fighting stress. It acts to counterbalance the fight or flight system and can trigger a relaxation response in our body.
How to Stimulate the Nerve Naturally
It is important to stimulate the vagus nerve, especially during stressful time. There are several ways to naturally stimulate the vagus nerve. Below are a few worth mention:
- Practice deep breathing exercises (“belly breaths”).
- Acupressure.
- Exercise.
- Add fiber-rich nutrients to your diet.
- Laughter.
- Immerse your face in cold water.
- Singing, humming, and gargling.
