Vagus Nerve Imbalance

“When danger is perceived, the sympathetic part of the vagus nerve activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which sends cortisol to your system. This process tightens the muscles to prepare for a threat. Heart rate increases because it is harder for the blood to access muscles when they are tight. The stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system keeps you alert to danger. This is a natural physiological response when there is a threat to your welfare.

However, this system can be put into overdrive by modern living and a stressful lifestyle. Rush hour traffic is the first example that comes to mind. Hurrying up to go slow puts the brakes and the accelerator on our system, doesn’t it? Regular work deadlines, living in unsafe environments, or frequent negative self-talk are some examples of how you can keep the sympathetic nervous system “churning.” Constant agitation of the fight or flight response has a deleterious effect since this system is meant to create short bursts and not long-term tension
.”

Chakras and the Vagus Nerve

– C.J LLEWELYN MED, LPC

80%

of nerve fibers in the vagus nerve transmit sensory information from the gut to the brain.

Boost Your Gut-Brain Health

Gut-Brain Connection Through the Vagus Nerve

The vagus nerve is essential for gut-brain communication, regulating digestion, gut microbiome balance, and mental health. It controls intestinal movement and digestive enzyme secretion while sending sensory data from the gut to the brain. Strengthening vagal tone through breathing and mindfulness enhances stress resilience, digestion, and emotional well-being.

Ever Experienced Any of These?

Digestive Issues

  • Frequent indigestion or bloating
  • Irregular bowel movements
  • Acid reflux or heartburn

Digestive issues are linked to vagus nerve function. Think what fear and emotions can cause in our stomach. Sometimes we over eat or can’t eat at all and sometimes we get nauseous or have nervous diarrhea. Nerves play a crucial role in gut regulation, healthy microbiome, and stomach acid production. We can start supporting our system through deep breathing, meditation, herbal remedies, and dietary changes.

Vagus Nerve

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