The secret to optimal health may lie not just in your diet and exercise routine but also in a lesser-known hero: the vagus nerve. Food Stress Emotions Hydration The vagus nerve’s intuitive wisdom enables it to redistribute this water or energy under threat, prioritizing life-saving functions by blocking certain branches to focus resources on the fight-or-flight response, Ms. Grobler said.
1. Touching 2. Posture and Spinal Movements One effective way to enhance the functioning of the autonomic nervous system is by engaging in a variety of movements that promote spinal flexibility and correct common imbalances.
Ms. Schwartz talks about moving the spine in six directions: curling your tailbone back, which will lengthen your torso and lift your chest, then curling your tailbone forward, rolling your shoulders forward, and bringing your gaze down. Next, lean your upper body to the right and lengthen the left side of your body.
Then, switch sides, bending toward the left and lengthening the right side of your body. Lastly, do a gentle twist to each side of the body. Lift your arms above your head, draw your right arm back behind you, and place your right fingertips on the chair or floor behind you and your left hand on your left knee.
Take several breaths and then take the twist to the left. 3. Eye Movements When your stress response is activated, your pupils dilate to help you scan the environment.
When you feel safe, your eyes tend to sparkle and express warmth, signaling that .
