One of the movements I practice regularly:  Look straight ahead.  Turn your head/neck to the right, gently and hold for 30-60 seconds or more.  Return to center then turn to the left and do the same.  Return to center – then with your eyes only, look to the right and hold for 30-60 seconds – or more – until you feel the need to yawn or breathe deeply/relax.  Return eyes to center, then look off to the left and repeat.

The Vagus Nerve: An Unexpected Key to Better Performance

The Role of the Vagus Nerve

Regardless of the system of relaxation and parasympathetic nervous system activation, there is one component common to all of them: the vagus nerve. Most of us are familiar with the central nervous system, the bundle of nerves that leaves the brain and moves into the spinal column. The vagus nerve is part of the sensory-somatic system, a subdivision of the peripheral nervous system. Peripheral nerves make their way directly out into the body. Most begin at the spinal column, but within the peripheral nervous system there are a group of nerves called cranial nerves that exit directly from the brain. The vagus nerve is the tenth cranial nerve. It exits at the medulla, part of the brainstem….

The Latin root of the word vagus is “wandering.” This is a key characteristic of this little gem within the world of relaxation. It begins its journey below the base of the brain, roams down the throat along the esophagus, continues its sojourn near the lungs and heart, and innervates the digestive system.

 

So, let’s stop and breathe with awareness for ten minutes:

As you inhale, lift your collarbone.

As you exhale, soften and relax.

As you inhale, expand your ribs out under your arms.

As you exhale, soften and relax.

As you inhale, expand your ribs across your back

As you exhale, soften and relax.

When you sit, close your eyes, and utilize your system’s own action, you enhance your health and wellness.

Here are a number of pathways to the vagus nerve. Choose your favorite:

• Immerse your face (especially the forehead, eyes, and two-thirds of your cheeks) in cold water for three minutes.

• Practice restorative yoga and include gentle backbends, forward bends, and twists.

• Include inversions in your practice like downward dog or legs up the wall.

• Chant and sing in low resonant tones.

• Immerse your tongue in saliva while doing long deep breathing.

• Practice Qigong.

• Laugh with deep diaphragmatic laughs.

Author: Victoria1111

Truthseeker. Philosopher. Commander of Freedom. Writer. Musician. Composer. Above all I Am A Creator. View all posts by Victoria1111