The Vagus Nerve is a significant nerve that ‘wanders’ through the body connecting the brain with the major organs – including heart, lungs, spleen, liver, kidneys, stomach, gastro-intestinal tract, and reproductive organs. The majority of information travelling along this nerve (>80%) flows from the organs to the brain stem. This is the mechanism by which the brain monitors the arousal state of the body. When it is aroused it reports higher levels of stress to the brain.
With the vagus nerve calmed, the body is better prepared to cope with stressful events. The practice builds resilience and the participant’s ability to remain calm, absorb stress, and minimise the likelihood of an inappropriate impulsive outburst or action.