Greetings!
What do humming, singing, gargling and ear acupressure have in common? There are simple ways to stimulate the vagus nerve, which trigger the relaxation response in our bodies. Known as the "rest and digest" nerve, the vagus nerve wanders through the body like a superhighway, communicating between your brain and body, affecting your heart, mood, digestion and more.
Somehow the ancient Chinese knew that the ear has amazing healing points that profoundly impact your body.
We now know that the cranial nerve 10, the vagus nerve, has a branch to the ear. Acupuncture in the ear (auricular) is well-recognized for treating addiction, pain and other disorders.
What's your vagal tone? Good vagal tone is like having a full gas tank to meet life's situations head-on. We all know those people who can handle emergency situations smoothly and calmly, yet we know others who have a melt down over spilled coffee. That's the difference in vagal tone. I am currently researching vagus nerve stimulators that clip onto the ear. In the meantime, I can add ear seeds to your next treatment or you can buy kits to apply the seeds yourself.
Make it a practice every night to breathe deeply and slowly into your belly while rubbing your ears for 30 seconds to help you sleep more soundly.
Watch these videos to follow along with quick and easy techniques.
In health,
Dr. Chantelle DeShazer, L.Ac. Ph.D. MTOM