how-stimulate-vagus-nerve

Learning to tap into the vagus nerve is a valuable skill in moments of crisis. "When we are able to access our vagus nerve, we can engage our parasympathetic nervous system which helps relax our body," says Monica Nastasi, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker and somatic experiencing therapist in Brooklyn, New York. "When our body is more relaxed, we are able to pause and evaluate our automatic thoughts that fuel anxiety. When we are able to evaluate these thoughts, our body relaxes more." This creates a more positive conversation between your brain and your body, which—let's face it—we all sort of want right now.