Vagus. Wander. SKY

Nice connection—the vagus nerve and Sudarshan Kriya (a rhythmic breathing practice from Art of Living) are deeply linked through the nervous system, especially in how breath can modulate our internal state.

Here’s how they intersect:

1. The Vagus Nerve – The Body’s Chill Switch

• It’s the 10th cranial nerve, running from the brainstem to the gut.
• Key part of the parasympathetic nervous system—“rest and digest” mode.
• Influences heart rate, digestion, mood, inflammation, and relaxation.
• When well-toned, it promotes resilience, calm, and emotional regulation.

2. Sudarshan Kriya – Breath-Based Nervous System Reboot

Sudarshan Kriya involves:

• Ujjayi breathing (slow, deep breath with slight constriction in throat)
• Bhastrika (bellows breath)
• Om chanting
• Rhythmic breathing (cyclical patterns of slow, medium, and fast)

These practices:

• Stimulate the vagus nerve via the breath, especially through slow exhalation and throat engagement.
• Shift the nervous system from sympathetic (fight-or-flight) to parasympathetic (relaxation).
• Result in reduced cortisol, lower heart rate, better sleep, and improved mood.

Scientific Backing

Studies (e.g., by NIMHANS in India and others) show Sudarshan Kriya:

• Increases HRV (heart rate variability)—a marker of vagal tone.
• Reduces symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
• Enhances gamma brainwave activity—linked to heightened awareness and bliss.

The Connection in Simple Terms

Breath is the bridge.

Sudarshan Kriya uses controlled rhythmic breath to:

• Stimulate the vagus nerve
• Shift brain chemistry
• Promote a deep state of calm and clarity

Would you like a breakdown of how to tone the vagus nerve daily with or without Sudarshan Kriya? Or how the kriya compares to other breathwork (like Wim Hof or Pranayama)?