vagus
/ˈveɪɡəs/
noun
- The vagus nerve, a long nerve that runs from the brainstem to the abdomen and controls many automatic body functions like heart rate, digestion, and breathing.
- The doctor explained that the vagus helps regulate your heartbeat without you thinking about it.
- Yoga and deep breathing are thought to activate the vagus and promote relaxation.
- Stimulating the vagus can sometimes reduce inflammation in the body.