The Vagus Nerve: How Stimulation Can Improve Health (plus my experience with Pulsetto).

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The Vagus Nerve: Your Body’s Control Centre

The vagus nerve, often referred to as the body’s "superhighway," is the longest cranial nerve, connecting your brain to various organs, including your heart, lungs, and digestive system. It plays a pivotal role in the parasympathetic nervous system—the "rest and digest" system responsible for:

  • Stress Regulation: Helping to lower heart rate and cortisol levels.

  • Digestive Health: Stimulating digestion and nutrient absorption.

  • Inflammation Control: Modulating the body’s inflammatory response.

  • Mental Well-Being: Enhancing mood and reducing anxiety by influencing neurotransmitters like serotonin.

When the vagus nerve is functioning optimally, it promotes a state of balance and calm in the body, often referred to as "vagal tone." Conversely, poor vagal tone has been linked to chronic stress, anxiety, and even gut disorders.

Vagus Nerve Stimulation Techniques

Improving vagal tone has been a focus of wellness and medical research in recent years. Here are some popular methods for stimulating the vagus nerve:

1. Natural Techniques

These traditional methods rely on lifestyle changes and practices:

  • Deep Breathing Exercises: Slow, diaphragmatic breathing is a proven way to activate the vagus nerve and reduce stress.

  • Cold Exposure: Splashing cold water on your face or cold showers can stimulate the nerve and improve resilience.

  • Yoga and Meditation: Practices that promote relaxation often increase vagal tone.

  • Humming and Singing: Vibrations from your vocal cords activate the nerve, which runs through your throat.

2. Vagus Nerve Stimulation Devices

For those seeking a more targeted and consistent approach, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) devices have emerged as a groundbreaking tool. These devices use mild electrical impulses to stimulate the nerve, offering therapeutic benefits for physical and mental health.

Popular VNS Devices Include:

  • Pulsetto: A non-invasive device worn around the neck that delivers precise electrical impulses to the vagus nerve, helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation.

  • GammaCore: A handheld device approved for migraine and headache management.

  • Apollo Neuro: Worn on the wrist or ankle, this device uses vibrations to improve stress response and sleep.

  • Neuvana Xen: Combines vagus nerve stimulation with music for a personalised relaxation experience.

These devices have shown promising results for conditions like anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and even irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Why I Chose a VNS Device?

I have tried other techniques but I am always drawn to technology to boost results. Below are some of the additional benefits:

  • Consistency: Unlike manual techniques, devices deliver targeted stimulation at consistent intensities.

  • Ease of Use: Portable and user-friendly, they integrate easily into daily routines.

  • Clinical Backing: Many devices are supported by scientific studies demonstrating their efficacy.

Andrea Linehan Pulsetto VNS

My Pulsetto Review

Stimulation Programs

Pulsetto offers multiple programs targeting different needs, such as Stress, Burnout, Pain, Inflammation, and Sleep, each with a distinct Hz frequency. However, I couldn’t differentiate between them—they all felt the same. Intensity is adjustable, with level 1 as a mild tingle and level 9 strong enough to contract neck muscles. While each program has a recommended time limit, you can run unlimited back-to-back sessions, making the time restrictions meaningless.

Results After 3 Weeks

Despite using multiple programs daily, I’ve noticed no significant difference. To be fair, I haven’t felt a clear impact from natural vagus nerve stimulation techniques either. This makes me skeptical of the glowing reviews claiming transformative effects.

Will I Keep Using It?

Yes. Even though I don’t feel the benefits, I recognize that vagus nerve stimulation—whether natural or via a device—may still be working in the background. The biggest advantage? I’m far more consistent with Pulsetto than with manual techniques, making it a more reliable part of my routine.

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Final Thoughts

The vagus nerve is central to our health and well-being, and stimulating it can unlock transformative benefits. Whether through traditional methods like yoga or cutting-edge devices like Pulsetto, investing in your vagal tone is an investment in your physical and mental resilience.

Disclaimer
The content in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only. I am not a medical practitioner, and the information provided is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for any health-related concerns or before making significant changes to your health routine.