Resetting or stimulating the vagus nerve can help promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. The vagus nerve plays a significant role in the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for “rest and digest” activities. Below are methods to reset or stimulate the vagus nerve:

Resetting the Vagus Nerve with a Neck Stretch

1. Sit Comfortably:
   • Sit cross-legged on the floor or on a chair with your feet flat on the ground.
   • Keep your back straight and shoulders relaxed.
2. Pull Your Ear to Your Shoulder:
   • Tilt your head to one side, bringing your ear gently toward your shoulder. Avoid shrugging your shoulder up.
3. Add Eye Movement:
   • While keeping your head tilted, look up and slightly in the opposite direction with your eyes.
   • For example:
     • If you tilt your head toward your right shoulder, look up toward the left with your eyes.
4. Hold the Position:
   • Hold this stretch for about 10–30 seconds, breathing deeply and slowly.
   • The goal is to trigger a yawn. This is an indicator you reset the vagus nerve.
5. Switch Sides:
   • Slowly return your head to a neutral position.
   • Repeat the stretch on the other side.
6. Finish with Centered Breathing:
   • After completing both sides, take a moment to sit still, focusing on your breath.

Why It Works

• Neck Stretch: Lengthening and relaxing the muscles around the neck and shoulders can help relieve tension, which is connected to vagus nerve function.
• Eye Movement: The upward and opposite eye movement engages cranial nerves, which interact with the vagus nerve, encouraging a relaxation response.
• Deep Breathing: Controlled breathing enhances vagal tone and activates the parasympathetic nervous system.