7 Best Morning Routines to Reset Your Vagus Nerve

Simple Daily Practices to Activate Calm, Boost Energy, and Enhance Well-Being

Did you know that the vagus nerve plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including heart rate, digestion, and stress response? Indeed, a well-functioning vagus nerve can contribute to overall well-being, helping you feel calmer and more balanced throughout the day.

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Importance of the Vagus Nerve

The vagus nerves carry signals between your brain, heart, and digestive system, forming a key part of your parasympathetic nervous system. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is even used as a treatment for conditions such as epilepsy and depression. The vagus nerves support involuntary sensory and motor functions, including:

- Digestion

- Heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration

- Immune system responses

- Mood regulation

- Mucus and saliva production

- Skin and muscle sensations

- Speech

- Taste

- Urine output

However, individuals who’ve experienced trauma may have an overactive vagus nerve, which can manifest as anxiety, irregular moods, nausea, bowel issues, and unexplained pain.

The good news is that specific morning routines can help stimulate and reset your vagus nerve, setting a positive tone for the day! 💕

Here are seven of the best morning practices to help you achieve this balance.

1. Deep Breathing Exercises

Why It Helps: Deep breathing stimulates the vagus nerve, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels.

How to Do It:

• Find a Safe Space Where You Won’t Be Disturbed. Sit (or lie) down in a relaxed position. Be careful not to fall asleep too soon if you lie down. Perhaps try a slightly inclined rest position.

• Inhale Deeply: Take a slow, deep breath in through your nose for a count of four (approx one count every 1-2 seconds).

• Hold and Exhale: Hold the breath for a moment or two, then gently exhale through your mouth for a count of eight. (This means allowing the breath to move out slower than you breathe in). Sigh on the exhale…

• Repeat: Perform this cycle for 5-10 minutes to activate the parasympathetic nervous system.

2. Cold Exposure