The Vagus Nerve: Your Body's Secret Weapon for Health and Wellness
The vagus nerve is one of the longest nerves in your body, stretching from your brainstem to your abdomen. It plays a crucial role in the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for your body's relaxation response, and helps regulate important functions such as heart rate, breathing, and digestion. Recent research has also revealed its impact on mood, behavior, immune system function, and cardiovascular health.
Exploring the Polyvagal Theory: How Our Nervous System, Emotions & Behaviours Impact Mental Health
Introduction The Polyvagal Theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, is a scientific theory that explains the complex interplay between the nervous system, emotions, and behaviour. This theory posits that the nervous system has three distinct branches, each of which corresponds to different emotional states and behavioural responses.