Yoga & Relaxing

What is it about Yoga that makes it relaxing? Is it the slower pace? The switch of mental focus? Or is it that stretching out tight muscles naturally results in a release of pent-up tension? These aspects all play a role, however, much deeper forces are also at work when we practise Yoga. The positive connection between yogic spinal movements and the autonomic nervous system has been long established. More recently, the beneficial toning effect that Yoga can have on the vagus nerve has emerged with increasing prominence. Descending from the brain, the vagus nerve spreads through the body to regulate the responses of the parasympathetic nervous system in the heart, lungs, stomach, kidneys, liver, small and large intestines, and parts of the throat and ear. Its widespread nature means that the vagus nerve delivers complex messages to the brain which affect multiple bodily functions. This makes it difficult for the body and brain to relax fully during times of stress when the vagus nerve becomes intensely activated. The controlled movements of Yoga, especially those which release the thoracic region where the vagus nerve is most concentrated, can help to calm the vagus nerve, shifting it from the “fight, flight, or freeze” response to the state of “rest and digest.” Yoga positions, such as upper body twists, side bends, and rolling spinal movements, which stimulate movement in the thoracic body, are particularly beneficial for vagal toning. Similarly, breath-based practices which energise the solar plexus, such as Ujjayi and Kabalbhati, can be helpful. Through regular practice, the vagus nerve learns how to move smoothly between states of overstimulation and equilibrium, making Yoga a useful tool in our high-paced world.