As someone passionate about women’s wellness, I’m thrilled to share this post with you. One of the most powerful—yet often overlooked—tools for supporting your mind and body is activating your vagus nerve. This nerve plays a big role in calming your nervous system. It also supports digestion, enhances your mood, and can even boost your immune health.

In this blog post, we will explore how this incredible nerve can become your new best friend for inner peace and vibrant wellness!

What is the Vagus Nerve & Why Does It Matter?

The vagus nerve is the body’s longest cranial nerve. It travels from your brainstem all the way to your heart, lungs, and digestive organs. Think of it as the main highway of your parasympathetic nervous system. This system is responsible for "rest and digest" mode.

When we support the vagus nerve and improve what’s called vagal tone, we’re signaling to the body:

💗 “You’re safe, you can relax, you can heal.”

Fun fact: Studies show that regular vagus nerve stimulation can reduce inflammation in the body by up to 40%!

My Personal Journey with the Vagus Nerve

Over the years, I’ve supported many women navigating stress, hormonal shifts, burnout, and overwhelm. I am passionate about helping others reclaim their calm. These simple daily rituals aren’t just theory. I’ve seen how tiny moments of intention can shift a woman’s day, energy, and mood.

Whether you are navigating motherhood, menopause, or simply seeking more balance, the beauty of these practices is that you don’t need anything fancy. Just your breath, your voice, and a few mindful minutes.

5 Simple Everyday Practices to Stimulate Your Vagus Nerve

You don’t need complicated techniques or hours of spare time. These practices are quick, effective, and can be easily integrated into your daily routine:

1. Diaphragmatic Breathing

Practice slow belly breathing, focusing especially on longer exhales.

💡 Why it works: This technique boosts vagal tone and releases calming neurotransmitters. It helps lower your heart rate and relax your mind.

2. Humming, Singing, or Chanting

Hum your favorite song or try a simple “Om.”

💡 Why it works: These throat vibrations activate the vagus nerve. Research shows they can lower anxiety, aid digestion, and boost happy hormones like GABA.

3. Gentle Yoga & Stretching

Focus on forward folds, neck rolls, and supported reclined poses.

💡 Why it works: These movements support the spine and internal organs. They stimulate the vagus nerve while promoting better circulation and hormonal harmony.

4. Mindfulness & Meditation

Even a few minutes counts!

💡 Why it works: Meditation helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system. You’ll reduce cortisol, slow your breathing, and improve emotional resilience over time. This is one of the most effective, accessible ways to build stronger vagal tone.

5. Massage (Professional or Self)

Pay attention to your neck, shoulders, and jawline—or enjoy a relaxing facial massage.

💡 Why it works: Touch soothes the nervous system and stimulates the vagus nerve. This ushers in calm and safety signals throughout your body.

The Scientific Perspective

Studies show that higher vagal tone leads to better emotional regulation, stronger immunity, and improved gut-brain communication. The Polyvagal Theory, formulated by Dr. Stephen Porges, explains how the vagus nerve influences our feelings and connections. Enhancing vagus nerve function actually strengthens our capacity for peace, connection, and joy.

So, it’s not just “woo-woo.” It’s your biology working at its best.

Embrace the Practices Today

Pick one of the five practices—perhaps diaphragmatic breathing before bed or a mini humming session in the shower. Observe how you feel afterward. Over time, your body becomes stronger at entering that restorative, calm state.

❤️ I’d love to hear from you! Which of these techniques resonates most with you? Have you noticed a shift when you try them? Drop a comment below—I read them all!

To find more information on how to support your wellness journey, visit this link.

Angela Elliott

(HonDegree Sports Science)

Co-founder of Elliott Yoga & Aromatic Yogi