25/06/2026
The Vagus Nerve (VN).
A very important nerve, connecting your brain to all other body systems (with the exception of reproductive- although some research suggests that it may also influence it too).
Your VN is the prime mover of the parasympathetic state (rest/digest). The ‘good guy’, who we need to hang out with more often!
Easy ways to improve vagal tone at home:-
💫Deep Diaphragmatic Breathing -
Breathing slowly, with exhales lasting longer than inhales, helps calm the nervous system. Really expand your lungs (which can sometimes feel uncomfortable) to engage your diaphragm muscle, and let your belly expand, before exhaling long and slow
💫Humming or Singing -
The vibration of the vocal cords provides tactile stimulation to the vagus nerve. So, set your Alexa to 80s music, and get singing! (Brownie points if your groove gets your hips moving too - more steps!) - getting your groove on at breakfast sets the tone for the day!
💫Cold Exposure -
splashing cold water on your face or taking a cool shower - an easy one! After hot cloth cleansing, splash face with cold water (NO! It doesn’t close pores! Haha) before toning
💫Gentle Massage - Neck, and shoulder massage using gentle to moderate pressure can activate the nerve (can also use your Gua Sha too) ONLY, ONLY, in an UPWARDS direction though please
(As an aside an intensive care nurse told me that she used neck massage on patients to lower hr. Not sure it’s a NHS protocol though but how wonderful - a holistic input to the most vulnerable)
How’s your vagal tone?
