The vagus nerve is the longest nerve in the body. It starts in the brain and runs down the neck and connects to various parts of the gut and other viscera. Stimulation of this nerve produces a relaxation effect throughout the body/mind system. The simplest way to stimulate the vagus nerve is by taking long, slow deep breaths. I like to visualize the expansion of the lungs as they massage the heart. The heart, being a muscle, surely enjoys being rubbed. As the lungs expand and contract, they also stimulate the vagus nerve, activating the parasympathetic nervous system, the “rest and digest” (as opposed to “fight or flight”) part of the nervous system.

Here’s a easy to digest article about the vagus nerve with some simple to apply exercises for increasing vagal tone. You’re probably already doing some of them.

“If you suffer from an inflammatory condition, digestive upset, high blood pressure or depression [among many other conditions], a closer look at vagal tone is highly recommended.”

Read: 6 Ways to Instantly Stimulate Your Vagus Nerve to Relieve Inflammation, Depression, Migraines and More by Darou Wellness