Vagus Nerve Exercises
What is Vagus Nerve?
The vagus nerve, extends from the brain stem to the neck, torso, and abdomen.
The nerve is a component of the parasympathetic nervous system, also known as the rest-and-digest system because it controls bodily functions during repose. It delivers communications from the digestive system and organs such as the lungs, heart, and liver to the brain.
Several organ functions, including digestion, heart rate, and respiration, are controlled by the vagus nerve. It controls vasomotor activity and reflexes including:
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Swallowing vomiting
Additionally, the vagus nerve controls vocalisation, temperament, and immunity. Additionally, it influences the sensory functions of a person’s ears, pharynx, and oesophagus.
How it works?
In VNS, a pulse generator is implanted beneath the pectoral skin of a patient. Similar to a pacemaker, the implantable device sends regular electrical stimulation to the patient’s brain via the vagus nerve.
By situating the supplied magnet over the pulse generator, it is possible to provide additional stimulation.
Relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, yoga, and medication can affect the activity of the vagus nerve, thereby enhancing its capacity to alleviate anxiety and mood-related symptoms.
Among the natural stimuli for the Vagus nerve are:
- Singing
- Loudly while gargling with water
- Coughing while chanting om or mantra
- Meditating
- Showering with cold water
- Applying ice water to the face
- Deep breathing exercises
- Laughing
Benefits of Vagus Nerve stimulation
VNS can enhance a person’s physical health and provide benefits for a variety of conditions. Due to its ability to promote relaxation and reduce inflammation, the treatment has a therapeutic effect on the body. People most commonly use VNS to treat the following issues:
- Epilepsy
- Depression
- Mental health
- Reducing blood pressure, lowering heart rate, and boosting immunity
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Crohn’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis
Consultation
During the consultation, according to the patient’s presenting complaints, if Vagus Nerve exercises are required, the patient will be trained to perform them independently. This service fee is included in the cost of the consultation.