We’ve talked about vagus nerve activation being an incredible tool for regulating our nervous system (since it’s crucial to both the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system), but have we emphasized just how powerful this system of controls really is?
We think we have a bit more to say.
If your body is throwing an inflammation tantrum (hello, bloating, brain fog, and mystery aches), it might be time to check in with your vagus nerve. The vagus nerve, aka the longest cranial nerve in the body, runs from your brain down into your gut. It is essentially the powerhouse behind your body’s chill mode, and activating it can help turn down the dial on inflammation.
Besides being your body’s stress whisperer, it controls everything from digestion to heart rate to mood. The vagus nerve gives signals in brain-to-immune communication. Studies show that vagus nerve stimulation suppresses proinflammatory markers, making it your body’s anti-inflammatory hotline to defend against chronic issues like autoimmune conditions, IBS, and even anxiety. (Inflammation isn’t just a gut problem. It messes with your brain too.) When activated, it sends a message to your immune system that it doesn’t need to crash out so hard.
Stimulating the vagus nerve to go into anti-inflammatory mode is often done through non-invasive electrical stimulation to the neck or to the auricular branch in the ear, a process called transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS).
But what if you want some quick, easy ways to stimulate your vagus nerve right now? No worries. Just try the ones below.
Slow breathing, which enhances the beneficial effects of taVNS, also helps regulate the vagus nerve.
Icing your face could be a much more potent wellness practice than just giving us that morning glow. Activities like immersing your face in cold water appear to activate the vagus nerve and improve your body’s response to acute stress. Talk about a win-win.
Singing, humming, and chanting can stimulate the vocal cords and, in turn, the vagus nerve. Pretty wild!
We know it’s not revolutionary, but meditation and yoga or other mindfulness practices have been associated with increased vagal tone, which may correlate with reduced inflammation. Now that’s habit stacking when it comes to toning the body and mind.
Massaging your neck and ears may also help you stimulate the vagus nerve as well. Plus, it feels soothing. Go ahead and rub your feet, too. Don’t be shy with yourself. Do it for less inflammation. For an even bigger puffiness reduction, massage your tummy before bed to fight bloating.
Your vagus nerve is the ultimate inflammation-fighting, mood-boosting secret weapon hiding in plain sight. By activating it, you’re giving your body the tools it needs to thrive without relying on a cocktail of meds or suffering through another mysterious bloating episode.
So go ahead, hum a tune, take a deep breath, and let your vagus nerve do its thing. Your body, immune aptitude, and your mood says thanks.
The content provided in this article is provided for information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice and consultation, including professional medical advice and consultation; it is provided with the understanding that Poosh, LLC (“Poosh”) is not engaged in the provision or rendering of medical advice or services. The opinions and content included in the article are the views of the author only, and Poosh does not endorse or recommend any such content or information, or any product or service mentioned in the article. You understand and agree that Poosh shall not be liable for any claim, loss, or damage arising out of the use of, or reliance upon any content or information in the article.
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