The Vagus Nerve: The Body’s Hidden Superpower
Mar 31, 2025 12:00AM ● By Susan Schultz
An optimal functioning vagus nerve is paramount in optimizing health and preventing the progression of diseases. In the book Activate Your Vagus Nerve, D. Navaz Habib describes an optimally functioning human body as a symphony orchestra. Each instrument has a role to play, and optimal harmony can only be reached if each instrument is directed to do its job. The conductor ensures that all instruments are in tune and in tempo.
Susan Schultz is an energy healing practitioner and teacher at Healing Waters Health Center at 6150 Oren Ave. North, Stillwater, Minnesota. For more information, visit their website at HealingWatersHealth.com
The vagus nerve (VN) is the conductor of the body’s symphony, regulating the function of numerous organs and systems. However, it can only do so effectively when it is functioning optimally. Lack of harmony results in dysfunction and disease. The vagus nerve is responsible for a wide range of vital processes, including:
Swallowing: The VN pauses the breathing reflex to prevent choking while eating. If it is not functioning properly, a person may experience coughing or a reduced gag reflex.
Airway and vocal cord management: The VN helps keep the upper airway open and enables clear communication.
Vocal pitch and sound formation: A poorly functioning VN may result in a hoarse voice, vocal fatigue, or a monotonous tone.
Breathing control: The VN relays information to the brain regarding oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, helping regulate breathing. Dysfunction can contribute to conditions like sleep apnea and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Heart rate regulation: The VN keeps the heart rate stable when the body is at rest.
Blood pressure management: By communicating with the kidneys, the VN helps regulate fluid balance and overall blood pressure.
Liver function: The VN plays a role in directing blood flow and relaying vital information between the liver and other organs.
Gallbladder activation: It triggers the release of bile to aid digestion.
Hunger and satiety management: The VN helps regulate appetite and digestive processes. It signals the gallbladder to release bile and the pancreas to release enzymes needed for digestion.
Blood sugar and insulin regulation: It plays a role in maintaining healthy glucose metabolism.
Immune system modulation: It influences immune responses and inflammatory processes, particularly in the gut.How does the vagus nerve manage so many functions? The answer is electricity. The VN transmits electrical signals to the end of a neuron, which then triggers the release of neurotransmitters. These chemical messengers relay signals throughout the body, ensuring smooth communication between organs and systems. Several factors can contribute to VN dysfunction, including:
Poor breathing patterns – Shallow chest breathing instead of deep belly breathing
Postural issues – Slouching, forward head posture, and excessive screen time
Dysfunctional digestion – Eating too quickly or not chewing food thoroughly
Bacterial overgrowth – Conditions like small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
Poor diet and an imbalanced gut microbiome
Chronic inflammation and immune dysfunction
Irregular heart rate
Compromised liver function
Chronic stress
Poor sleep quality and circadian rhythm disruption – Deep, restorative sleep acts as a gym for the vagus nerve.
If you experience any of these issues, vagus nerve dysfunction could be the underlying cause.
The Benefits of Vagus Nerve Balance
Healing Waters Health Center specializes in restoring balance by optimizing the body’s electrical systems. Throughout April, they are offering a 90-minute Vagus Nerve Balance session for just $99—an opportunity to experience the profound benefits of a well-functioning VN.
Call 651-430-2866 or book your 90-minute Vagus Nerve Balance session for just $99 using the QR code to receive the $99 April special (normally $125).
