The Healing Power of the Vagus Nerve in Brain Disorders & Complex Chronic Illness

Whirling Dervishes (Accessing Their Vagus Nerves) Cut paper, ink and acrylic on wood panel by Courtney Snyder

Courtney Snyder, MD

The proper functioning of the vagus is one of the most important determinants of physical and mental health, social communication, compassion and even creativity.  If you have a psychiatric condition or a complex chronic illness (or your child does), understanding the vagus may help demystify what has likely been a confusing and demoralizing experience. In this post, I'll discuss the many roles of the vagus nerve, the many body systems it influences, and the many seemingly unrelated symptoms it can impact when it’s not working well.  My hope is that the vagus will become as awe inspiring for you, as it has for me, and that you’ll want to help it help you. 

There are many ways to improve vagal "tone" to access healing and wellbeing. Perhaps because they're fun and life affirming, they’re often not taken seriously. In my own journey, I spent years trying to dominate my biochemistry, improve my microbiome and avoid  and  remove toxins. This narrow attention held me (and my daughter) back. If this is where you’re at, then I write this for you.

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