Healing Power of the Vagus Nerve: A Guide for Women Over 40
As we grow older, we become more susceptible to pain and stress, which can be detrimental to our overall health and wellbeing. However, there is a solution – the vagus nerve. This powerful nerve is responsible for regulating our body’s autonomic functions, and can be easily accessed through various self-care practices. In this blog post, we will explore the healing power of the vagus nerve and how women over 40 can tap into its full potential
What is the Vagus Nerve?
The vagus nerve is our tenth cranial nerve. It is the longest nerve in the body that runs from the brainstem to the abdomen, and innervating all the major organs. It carries certain information to from the brain to the body and from the body to the brain. Eighty percent of the signals are from the body to the brain. It regulates the body’s autonomic functions such as heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, body temperate, metabolism and digestion. It also plays a significant role in the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps to alleviate stress and reduce inflammation. If you are experiencing issues with any of these areas, it might mean that your vagus nerve needs some attention.
Benefits of Toning the Vagus Nerve
Toning the vagus nerve can have numerous benefits, such as reducing anxiety and depression symptoms, improving gut health, lowering inflammation, and enhancing memory and cognition. It can also help to regulate blood sugar levels and lower the risk of heart disease.
Techniques to Tone and Stimulate the Vagus Nerve
There are several techniques that women over 40 can use to tone and stimulate the vagus nerve, including deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, acupuncture, and massage therapy. These practices can help to lower stress levels and improve overall wellbeing.
Humming, singing, chanting, talking, cold exposure and gargling are great practice to improve your vagal tone. You might also feel uplifted !
Food and Lifestyle Choices for Optimal Vagus Nerve Health
In addition to self-care practices, women can also make dietary and lifestyle choices that support optimal vagus nerve health. Consuming anti-inflammatory foods, such as turmeric, ginger, and omega-3 fatty acids, can reduce inflammation and promote gut health. Regular exercise and spending time in nature can also help to lower stress and support overall wellbeing.
Final Thoughts
Stimulating the vagus nerve can be a powerful tool for women over 40 to reduce stress, improve gut health, and overall wellbeing. Incorporating self-care practices, making dietary and lifestyle changes can all support optimal vagus nerve health. By tapping into the healing power of the vagus nerve, women can live a more comfortable and fulfilling life.
