Ways To Reset Your Vagus Nerve Naturally

The vagus nerve is the main component of the parasympathetic nervous system that serves many functions. It is known for helping your body rest and digest by slowing and stabilizing a resting heart rate, slowing the breath, promoting digestion, and more. Here are some ways to reset your vagus nerve naturally.

Stretch

Stretching is a way to connect with your body and relax the mind. Practicing yoga stimulates the vagus nerve by slowing everything down with soothing breath-focused practices. Slow breathing is very effective as a gentle massage to the digestive tract.

Breathe

The breath activates the autonomic nervous system, inhaling activates the sympathetic nervous system and exhaling activates the parasympathetic nervous system. Inhaling breathes stress into the body, while exhaling breathes it out. The more intense you breathe the more stress you experience. The slower you breathe the more relaxed you experience. Slow inhales with long exhales will help to put you in a relaxed state.

Hum/Chant

Chanting and humming activate the vagus nerve, this is because the muscles in the back of the throat are connected to the vagus nerve. Humming releases nitric oxide, which improves blood circulation and blood flow, reduces inflammation, improves heart health and lowers blood pressure. You can also activate the vagus nerve by gargling water.

Laugh

Laughing activates the vagus nerve because it stimulates the muscles in the throat. Taking the time for things that bring you joy and laughter, like a funny movie, being with friends, or listening to your favorite podcast are all ways to reset your vagus nerve.

Exercise

Exercise increases dopamine and blood circulation, and deepens the breath. This is why you feel more calm after a workout. The parasympathetic nervous system is engaged after rest.

Cold Water Exposure

Cold water activates what’s called the diving reflex which activates the vagus nerve. The diving reflex is when you are holding your breathe submerged in cold water. Research shows that a few minutes in cold water increases the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for calming the body.

Listen to Brainwave Music

Brainwave music taps into the parasympathetic nervous system, that stimulates the vagus nerve. It’s a great way to promote peace and relaxation while also getting mental clarity.