Tapping Vagus Nerve: What Is It And What Does It Do?
Graphic Image of the Vagus Nerve
What Is The Vagus Nerve?
The vagus nerve, or wandering nerve, is the longest cranial nerve in the body and is a part of the parasympathetic nervous system.
It originates from the brain stem, runs through the neck and chest, and into your abdomen, branching off to different organs.
The wandering nerve is responsible for regulating the parasympathetic nervous system. This system (PNS) is one of two autonomic nervous system (ANS) parts.
The PNS is responsible for restoring essential functions and soothing the body, like alleviating anxiety and reducing stress levels. In comparison, the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is responsible for the fight or flight response.
What Does The Vagus Nerve Control?
The vagus controls many body functions, such as heart rate, breathing, digestion, speaking, blood flow, and swallowing.
It also plays a vital role in controlling emotions.
DIY vagus nerve massage points stimulation by tapping or stretching can have a calming effect on the mind and body by relaxing the vagus nerve.
Vagus Nerve Stimulation Device
How To Stimulate The Vagus Nerve?
There are several ways to stimulate the vagus, including physical exercises like yoga poses that stretch certain body parts, sound frequency therapy, with a vagus nerve stimulator device like the WAVwatch, and tapping on specific points along the nerve.
Tapping is a very gentle and simple technique that can be done at home. All you need is to place your fingertips lightly on specific pressure points for about ten seconds each, focusing on deep breathing throughout.
WAVwatch Sound Wave Therapy Device Infographic
Benefits of Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Lasting Wellness
The benefits of stimulating the vagus include:
Increased stress relief,
Improved mood,
Better overall mental health,
It can also help reduce inflammation in the body,
Improve digestion,
It has been shown to positively affect cognitive function and memory,
Help regulate blood pressure and heart rate,
Finally, it can help boost immunity by stimulating cell production within the immune system.
By being aware of this important cranial nerve, you can improve your mental clarity. You can also enjoy deeper relaxation and better physical performance.
To stimulate your vagus nerve, find methods that work best for you.
You might try yoga poses, sound therapy, or gentle taps on specific pressure points. Each time, aim for more relaxation and better results with practice.
Achieve Better Health by Restoring Imbalances in Your Body
How to Calm the Vagus Nerve
Not only do our ears pick up sound, but every cell in our bodies also feels it. Sound healing is not only physical but also deeply emotional and spiritual.
Sound can improve every level of bodily function and medical disorders.
Sound frequency therapy and the wandering nerve are intimately connected and can be used to reduce stress, improve mental clarity, boost immunity, and regulate heart rate.
You can promote relaxation and better overall health by stimulating the vagus nerve with sound waves or tapping specific pressure points on your body.
The WAVwatch is a self-care tool for vagus nerve stimulation at home that uses sound therapy to help with common health problems and imbalances in your body.
Sound therapy uses low-wave frequencies that run through your body. This method for improving your health has been used for centuries and is extremely safe and scientifically researched.
How Does Tapping The Wandering Nerve Work?
Tapping the vagus works by activating the PNS, which regulates rest, relaxation, and digestion. You can do this by gently tapping certain pressure points along the nerve or stretching its pathways with yoga poses.
Stimulating this important cranial nerve calms both the mind and body. It helps reduce stress and improve mental health.
You can improve your mental clarity by activating your wandering nerve regularly. This practice can help you relax more deeply.
It can also boost your physical performance. Overall, you will feel a greater sense of peace.
What Are The Risks Of Stimulating The Vagus?
No known risks are associated with stimulating the vagus through sound waves, light tapping, or physical stretching.
However, if you experience any pain while performing these activities, it is essential to stop immediately and talk to a doctor or other healthcare professional.
Additionally, since stimulating the wandering nerve can affect cardiac rhythm, it is not recommended for individuals who have had heart-related issues in the past.
As always, consult your healthcare provider before doing any self-care activity like this is recommended.
What Does The Vagus Have To Do With Normal Hearing?
The vagus is essential for proper auditory nerve functioning and normal hearing. When the pathways of the vagus nerve are damaged or interrupted, it can lead to a condition known as Auditory Neuropathy (AN).
AN is a hearing disorder characterized by difficulty processing sound information in the inner ear. Symptoms include:
Difficulty understanding speech,
Difficulty hearing muffled sounds,
An inability to process specific frequencies.
Various therapies have been developed to help those with AN manage their symptoms. Sound therapy and tapping the vagus are especially beneficial in this regard, as stimulating it can relieve the associated symptoms.
Additionally, tapping helps improve communication skills by improving hearing and reducing inner ear noise-induced sensory overload.
Stimulating the wandering nerve through sound frequencies and tapping can help manage AN to prevent severe hearing loss.
What Is The Auditory Nerve?
Auditory Neuropathy (AN) is a hearing disorder characterized by difficulty processing sound information.
This condition can be caused by inner ear damage or interruption of the pathways of the vagus. Various therapies have been developed to help those with AN manage their symptoms.
Tapping and acoustic wave therapy of the vagus are especially beneficial in this regard, as they help improve communication skills by improving hearing and reducing noise-induced sensory overload.
Stimulating this cranial nerve through light tapping can be a helpful tool in managing Auditory Neuropathy and may prevent the patient from wearing hearing aids.
What Causes Auditory Neuropathy?
Auditory Neuropathy (AN) can be caused by damage or interruption of the pathways of the wandering nerve. This cranial nerve controls sensory and motor functions in the body, including hearing.
Since this nerve helps to transmit sound signals from the inner ear to the brain, any disruption of its pathways can lead to a functional hearing disorder.
Various causes of AN include:
Genetic mutations,
Neurological diseases,
Head trauma,
Infection,
Noise-induced hearing loss,
Drugs or toxins affecting nerves,
Aging.
In some cases, there may not be an identifiable cause at all.
Regardless of the underlying cause, tapping and sound wave therapy on specific pressure points along the wandering nerve can help improve communication skills by improving hearing and reducing noise-induced sensory overload without hearing aids.
How Often Should I Stimulate The Vagus Nerve?
The frequency of tapping depends on your individual needs and goals. Generally speaking, it is recommended to stimulate the vagus nerve at least once a day.
However, tapping multiple times a day or even throughout the day may be beneficial if you seek more immediate benefits.
In conclusion, sound wave therapy and tapping the vagus nerve can be effective therapeutic techniques in managing Auditory Neuropathy (AN).
Stimulating this cranial nerve through light tapping can improve communication skills by improving hearing and reducing noise-induced sensory overload.
With regularity and consistency, these benefits will become more profound! As always, make sure to consult with a medical professional before engaging in any activity like this.
You can find vagus nerve massage points here.
What Is A Dorsal Vagal Shutdown?
A dorsal vagal shutdown is a physical response to stress in which the body shuts down or withdraws from active engagement with the environment.
This can manifest as feeling overwhelmed, withdrawing physically and emotionally, withdrawing socially, and even freezing or becoming paralyzed.
It’s important to note that this isn’t something people will do intentionally; it’s an involuntary response to extreme stress or fear.
The dorsal vagal system is part of the autonomic nervous system that helps us cope with difficult emotions and situations by slowing down our responses and allowing us to take a step back from whatever threatens us.
When we experience a feeling of threat, the dorsal vagal response often kicks in and allows us to retreat or remain passive instead of becoming active in the situation.
Over time, this response can become exaggerated and lead to feelings of helplessness or paralysis.
Thankfully, with mental health support, learning strategies for better managing stress and avoiding a dorsal vagal shutdown is possible.
Can Tapping the Vagus Nerve Help with PTSD?
Tapping the vagus nerve might potentially help with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Evidence suggests that vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) can increase parasympathetic nervous system activity, which could counterbalance the fight-or-flight stress responses often seen in PTSD1.
Some research indicates that chronic VNS may reduce anxiety2, and treatments that manipulate the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS), including VNS, have shown some promise in relieving PTSD symptoms3.
Research has also shown that pairing rehabilitation therapy with VNS can strengthen recovery for disorders such as stroke and tinnitus4.
Furthermore, stimulation of the vagus nerve was associated with a decrease in PTSD symptoms by reducing inflammatory responses to stress5.
However, it's worth noting that these studies generally involve direct or invasive VNS. There is currently no research showing the health benefits of vagus nerve tapping, a non-invasive method, or its ability to improve vagal tone6.
Thus, while there is promising evidence for the role of VNS in treating PTSD, more research is needed, especially in the area of non-invasive methods like vagus nerve tapping.
A study on music therapy for PTSD concluded that it can help reduce symptoms, improve functioning, and foster resilience in trauma survivors. However, more rigorous research is needed to confirm these benefits.
Footnotes
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you tap the vagus?
The vagus can be accessed by lightly tapping the pressure points along the neck and jawline.
Some people prefer to use their fingertips, while others may use a small massager or vibrator. It is essential to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your tapping as you become more comfortable with it.
Is tapping the vagus nerve safe?
Yes, when appropriately done, tapping the vagus is generally considered safe.
However, it is best to consult with a medical professional before engaging in this activity, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking any medications that could interact adversely with this type of therapy.
Can I tap my vagus nerve?
Yes, you can. However, it is important to do so slowly and with caution. Make sure you start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your tapping as you become more comfortable with it.
It is also recommended to consult with a medical professional before engaging in this activity.
What are the side effects of tapping the vagus nerve?
The most common side effect of tapping the nerve is lightheadedness or dizziness due to increased blood pressure.
Other potential side effects include nausea, fatigue, headaches, increased heart rate, tingling sensations in arms and legs, and a feeling of calmness or relaxation.
What does tapping the vagus do?
Tapping the nerve can help improve communication skills by improving hearing and reducing noise-induced sensory overload. It can also provide various other health benefits, such as improved mental clarity, more profound relaxation, better physical performance, and increased peace.
Is tapping the vagus nerve painful?
No, it should not be painful. However, it is essential to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your tapping.
Where is the pressure point for the vagus nerve?
It can be accessed by lightly tapping the pressure points along the neck and jawline. Generally speaking, these pressure points are located just below the earlobe and between the collarbone and shoulder blades.
Can the Vagus nerve help with psychiatric and inflammatory disorders?
The Vagus nerve is a critical part of the human body and its health.
Studies suggest that stimulating the Vagus nerve can help reduce symptoms of many psychiatric and inflammatory disorders, such as depression and anxiety, as well as issues within the digestive tract like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), inflammatory bowel disease, and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).
Numerous studies have demonstrated that targeted Vagus nerve stimulation can reduce inflammation and improve mood.
WAVwatch Acoustic Wave Therapy Infographic
What is the fastest way to calm the vagus?
The fastest way to calm the vagus is through light tapping and massaging of pressure points along the neck and jawline. This technique can help reduce stress levels, improve communication skills, and offer various other health benefits.
How long does it take for the vagal nerve stimulation to work?
The effects of tapping the vagus nerve can be felt within a few minutes, although they may vary depending on individual needs and goals. Generally speaking, regular practice is necessary to experience lasting results.
Is vibration good for the vagus nerve?
Yes, vibration can be beneficial for the vagus nerve.
Vibrations help stimulate the nerve endings and activate this cranial nerve, improving communication skills and reducing noise-induced sensory overload.
Use a device that produces gentle vibrations at a comfortable intensity for best results.
What else is good for the vagus nerve?
In addition to tapping and vibrating pressure points along the neck and jawline, several other activities may help provide benefits to the vagus nerve.
These include sound therapy with the WAVwatch, deep breathing exercises, yoga poses, meditation practices, acupuncture sessions, and sound therapy.
What are the symptoms of nerve damage in the ear?
Nerve damage in the ear can lead to hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), dizziness, balance issues, and difficulty processing sounds.
If you experience any of these symptoms, seeking medical attention right away is crucial.
Can you fix nerve damage in the inner ear?
Yes, in some cases, nerve damage in the ear can be repaired or treated using various techniques. Depending on the severity of the damage and other factors, treatment may include medications, surgery, or physical therapy exercises.
Can auditory nerves regenerate?
Yes, auditory nerves can regenerate over time with proper care and treatment.
The regeneration process generally occurs slowly, so it is essential to be patient and seek medical attention as soon as possible if you are experiencing any nerve damage symptoms.
How do you stimulate the vagus nerve with sound?
Sound therapy can be used to stimulate the vagus nerve. This technique uses specific tones and frequencies to activate this cranial nerve, improving communication skills and reducing noise-induced sensory overload.
It is important to use sound therapy regularly in a relaxed environment for the best results.
What frequency heals the vagus nerve?
Different frequencies can be used to help stimulate and heal the vagus nerve. Generally speaking, low binaural beats in the 1-4 Hz range are believed to benefit this cranial nerve.
Higher frequency tones may also provide some benefits, such as improved mental clarity and better physical performance.
It is important to remember that everyone responds differently to sound wave therapy, so it is best to experiment with different frequencies until you find one that works best for you.
Additionally, always start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your sessions.
What is genetic sensorineural hearing loss?
Genetic factors cause genetic sensorineural hearing loss. This condition is usually inherited and presents as a mild to profound degree of permanent hearing impairment. Depending on the specific gene mutation responsible for the condition, it can affect one or both ears. Symptoms may include difficulty understanding speech, reduced sound clarity, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and even balance issues.
What are emotional freedom techniques?
Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) is a form of counseling intervention that draws on various theories of alternative medicine, including:
Acupuncture,
Neuro-linguistic programming,
Energy medicine,
and Thought Field Therapy (TFT). It is often referred to as "tapping" or psychological acupressure.
The technique works by releasing blockages within the energy system, which are the source of emotional intensity and discomfort.
These blockages in our energy system, in addition to emotionally challenging us, often lead to limiting beliefs and behaviors and an inability to live harmoniously.
The basic EFT sequence involves focusing on the negative emotion at hand - a fear, a worry, a bad memory, an unresolved problem, or anything that's bothering you.
While maintaining your mental focus on this issue, you use your fingertips to tap 5-7 times on each of the 12 specific meridian points on your body.
Vagus Nerve GIF
EFT has been used to effectively treat a wide range of emotional problems and issues, including:
Anxiety,
Fears,
Phobias,
Trauma,
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder,
Grief,
Anger,
Guilt, etc.
It has also been used to enhance performance and improve physical health issues such as pain relief, weight loss, and allergies.
However, it's important to note that while EFT has produced remarkable clinical results, it must still be considered in the experimental stage.
Thus, practitioners and the public must take complete responsibility for using it.
Source: EFT Universe
Conclusion
The vagus nerve is one of the most critical parts of the body, and stimulating it can have many positive benefits.
While there are many ways to do this, tapping or stretching are two simple and easy methods that anyone can do at home.
Stimulating the vagus nerve can help reduce stress, improve mood and mental health, boost immunity, and regulate blood pressure and heart rate.
By stimulating your vagus nerve, you may be able to achieve a healthier state of mind, better physical well-being, and improved overall quality of life.
Whether you practice yoga, tap specific pressure points throughout your body, or use other methods to stimulate your vagus nerve, like using sound wave therapy - taking the time to relax and practice self-care is sure to have positive effects.
All in all, learning how to stimulate the vagus nerve can be a powerful tool for improving your health and well-being.