#37 - What you REALLY need to know about the Vagus Nerve

Mar 29, 2025

In this engaging discussion, Tony Fowler, a podcast producer and health enthusiast, delves into the vagus nerve's intricate connections and its vital role in our bodies. He explains the misconception of 'resetting' the nerve and introduces therapeutic techniques like humming and mobility drills to enhance vagal function. The conversation also touches on the importance of body awareness in recovery and inflammation management, alongside innovative therapies to optimize health. Tune in for fascinating insights into the interplay between our nervous system and overall well-being!

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Intro

00:00 • 3min

Exploring Lymphatic Mobilization

02:37 • 6min

The Vagus Nerve Unveiled

08:59 • 23min

Unlocking the Vagus Nerve

31:44 • 20min

Unlocking the Vagus Nerve

51:33 • 19min

Empowering Recovery Through Awareness

01:10:12 • 8min

Exploring Vagus Nerve Stimulation

01:18:18 • 7min

Understanding the Vagus Nerve and Applied Neurology

01:25:13 • 2min

Have you ever heard someone say your vagus nerve needs a reset? In this episode, I speak with my podcast producer, Tony, all about the Vagus nerve and navigate the line between fact and fiction with regard to this increasingly popular focal point for health and movement professionals. I outline the anatomy of the vagus nerve and discuss why it's often called the "wandering nerve" because it connects to so many different vital organs and higher order systems in the body. By studying the anatomy of the vagus nerve, I show how it can be used therapeutically to target a myriad of different areas and functions of the body, and why its connective power is also why it's often so misunderstood. I discuss some common points of activation that I use to access the vagus nerve and clarify the map, as well as how to assess these interventions to make sure they are actually helping the client. This is a massive episode that covers a ton of ground from the parasympathetic system and vestibular system down to the interoceptive system and digestive system, and touches on inflammation, recovery, anxiety, depression, blood pressure, breathing, diet, balance and more. I also discuss the lymphatic system and some simple drills I use to improve recovery, and why I think it's so important for people to learn to listen to their own bodies.

Thank you to my podcast idea man and coach, Tony Fowler (Instagram: @tone_reverie) for helping me put together this episode!

Links:

Check out our YouTube Video for vagus nerve exercises for pain relief
Check out our YouTube Video for tongue circle tutorial
Check out our YouTube video on cranial mobility

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