The Vagus nerve has been recently a popular topic in the world of social media. That is likely because of its impact on the Central Nervous System. This is the system that controls your stress/anxiety and balances it with your calm/rest/digest feelings.
It is important to have a good balance of Rest with Stress but often with those who have suffered a concussion, their stress response is too high, too elevated, for too long. The concepts covered in the video include:
- Laughter / Socializing
- Cold Water Exposure
- Deep Breathing
Laughter:
Laughter is recommended daily. Some good options include watching a funny movie, video or reel OR reading a funny book. If you have a friend who has a sense of humour you enjoy, hang out with them more.
Cold Water Exposure:
Cold Water Exposure is recommended to spend 11 minutes a week working towards building your exposure. You should start slow and for a limited time. Splashing cold water on your face, neck and upper back is good way to start. Then building towards some time in the shower. A recommended cycle to work towards in the shower is 60 seconds of warm water, following by 10 seconds of cold water.
Deep Breathing:
Deep Breathing is recommended for 5 minutes daily. It is helpful to find the breathing pattern that works for you. There are many options of mindfulness breathing. It will be very important to focus on an exhale that is longer than an inhale.
If you’d like to be part of this meeting in the future, please email mlevtov@completebalancehealth.com.
If you’ve suffered a concussion and need to be treated, please call our clinic, Complete Balance Health Centre, at (416) 769-1163.
Ask Dr. James 