Chances are you’ve encountered mentions of the vagus nerve online or in yoga classes. But what exactly is this longest cranial nerve, and why should you be aware of it?

The vagus nerve acts as a crucial communication pathway between the brain and various body systems, influencing mood, digestion, heart rate, immune response, and more. Recent interest focuses on its role in supporting women’s health, impacting everything from menopause symptoms to mental well-being.

Key Functions of the Vagus Nerve:

• Regulating heart rate and blood pressure
• Controlling digestion
• Stimulating hormone release
• Regulating mood and emotion
• Connecting the brain to the gut

For midlife women, the vagus nerve proves essential, contributing to the alleviation of menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and mood disorders. Its ability to modulate the body’s stress response plays a pivotal role in promoting relaxation and mitigating stress-related issues.

How the Vagus Nerve Manages Stress Response:

The vagus nerve activates the parasympathetic nervous system, triggering the “rest and digest” response. This counteracts the sympathetic nervous system’s “fight or flight” reaction, reducing heart rate, blood pressure, and stress hormones while fostering relaxation.

Activating the vagus nerve can be achieved through various methods:

Deep breathing: A simple and effective way, deep breathing massages the vagus nerve, signalling the brain to induce relaxation.

Singing or humming: Vibrations from singing or humming stimulate the vagus nerve.

Self-touch: Supportive self-touch and hugs activate skin receptors, sending signals through the vagus nerve to convey a sense of safety and love.

Cold exposure: Exposure to cold activates the sympathetic nervous system, and the vagus nerve helps restore balance.

Meditation and yoga: These practices enhance relaxation and improve vagus nerve tone.

The vagus nerve is a valuable tool for midlife women, aiding in alleviating menopause symptoms and enhancing mental and overall health. I focus on nervous system regulation in my 1-1 coaching, believing that a regulated nervous system contributes to a vibrant life. Schedule a free call with me for more information on unlocking the power of your vagus nerve and how I can support you.

Thanks for reading!

Louise xx