Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) refers to the practice of activating the vagus nerve (a major nerve that runs from the brainstem to many internal organs) to influence nervous system activity and bodily regulation. The vagus nerve plays a central role in the autonomic nervous system, helping regulate functions such as heart rate, digestion, breathing, and inflammatory responses.
In clinical contexts, VNS usually involves a medical device implanted under the skin that sends regular electrical pulses to the vagus nerve. This form of stimulation is FDA-approved for conditions such as drug-resistant epilepsy and treatment-resistant depression and is also studied for other uses like stroke rehabilitation and headache management.
There are also non-invasive methods of stimulating the vagus nerve, such as gentle electrical pulses delivered through the skin near the ear or neck or lifestyle practices like deep breathing, humming, or meditation.
Vagus nerve stimulation is distinct from general wellness breathing or relaxation practices in that it specifically targets this major autonomic nerve to influence body systems at a neurological level, although the degree and consistency of effects can vary widely depending on method and individual response.
