Ways to stimulate the vagus nerve – for happier, healthier, calmer children

Focusing on children, the vagus nerve, or the tenth cranial nerve, emerges as an essential component of the parasympathetic nervous system. It plays a significant role in regulating vital bodily functions such as mood, immune system responses, digestion, and heart rate. Activating the vagus nerve can lead to relaxation and a reduction in stress levels. Beyond the activities highlighted—getting enough sleep, gargling, maintaining a balanced diet, encouraging movement, practicing breath awareness, dancing, playing, receiving a massage from a parent, connecting with senses, and dancing in the kitchen—here are additional ways to engage the vagus nerve beneficial for children:

1. Laughter

   Sharing genuine laughs with children not only reduces stress but also activates the vagus nerve, promoting a sense of well-being.

2. Breath work

   Teaching children simple breathing exercises, with a focus on longer exhalations, can enhance their vagal tone, fostering calmness.
   

3. Acupuncture

   While more suitable for older children, acupuncture, with a focus on specific points, can stimulate the vagus nerve.
   

4. Massage

   Gentle massages, particularly on the feet or the sides of the neck, can activate the vagal response, offering comfort and relaxation.
   

5. Probiotics

   Incorporating probiotics into a child's diet supports gut health, which is directly linked to brain function through the vagus nerve, enhancing overall well-being.
   

6. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

   Foods rich in omega-3s can improve vagal tone and reduce inflammation, supporting children's mental and physical health.
   

7. Mild Exercise

   Encouraging children to engage in gentle physical activities can stimulate the vagus nerve, improving their mood and energy levels.
   

8. Intermittent Fasting

   For older children and teenagers, with proper guidance, intermittent fasting might be explored for its potential to stimulate the vagus nerve. This approach should only be considered under professional supervision.
   

9. Chanting, Prayer, and Positive Social Contact

   Participating in these activities can enhance vagal tone, highlighting the importance of spiritual and social connections for children.
   

10. Biofeedback

    This can be adapted for children to help them gain awareness and control over their vagal nerve responses, enhancing resilience to stress.
    

11. Cold Exposure

    Brief, supervised exposure to cold, such as cool baths, can activate the vagus nerve - again, better for teens.
    

12. Meditative Movement

    Engaging children in age-appropriate practices like children's yoga combines movement with a meditative focus, stimulating the vagus nerve.

Activating the vagus nerve can significantly benefit children by reducing stress and fostering a relaxation response. However, before introducing any new health routines, especially for children with pre-existing health conditions, consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial.

To discover how we can support your child's journey towards activating and harmonising the vagus nerve, we invite you to click the 'register your interest' link.

Wishing your family a journey filled with peace and wellness from our team at The Key Clinic.