Need some rest and relaxation?
Here’s how to stimulate your vagus nerve for “rest and digest,” according to therapists.
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Monica Nastasi is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Somatic Experiencing therapist in Brooklyn, New York.
Her particular area of specialty is combining traditional talk therapy with mindfulness practices, including meditation and breathwork.
Also called the wandering nerve, [it] is the longest nerve pathway in the body.
Kimberly Schmidt Bevans is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist in Brookline, Massachusetts. A body-focused therapist, Kimberly’s approach draws from breath work, mindful movement, grounding exercises, thought reframing, and expressive exploration.
When we are able to evaluate these thoughts, our body relaxes more.
That all sounds great, but how exactly are you supposed to stimulate the vagus nerve?
Its easier than youd think.
Keep reading for tricks to help you calm down when those anxious thoughts are spiraling out of control.
How to stimulate your vagus nerve, according to therapists
1.
Repeat this six times, says Nastasi.
So go ahead: Call one of your mom.
Make a coffee date with a friend.
Ask your significant other to lunch.
Kimberly Schmidt Bevans is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist in Brookline, Massachusetts. A body-focused therapist, Kimberly’s approach draws from breath work, mindful movement, grounding exercises, thought reframing, and expressive exploration.
Flow through a quick yoga class to say hello to your vagus nerve:
Oh hi!
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