Ever noticed how a splash of cold water on your face can instantly shift your state? That’s your vagus nerve at work.
The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body, playing a key role in activating the parasympathetic nervous system, our natural “rest and digest” response. When stimulated, it helps regulate stress, slow the heart rate, and bring a sense of calm and clarity.
One simple and effective way to engage the vagus nerve? Cold water immersion. Here’s how it works:
Reduces the stress response - Cold water exposure dampens the body’s fight-or-flight reaction, making stress feel more manageable.
Increases parasympathetic activity - This helps shift the body into a calmer, more balanced state.
Slows the heart rate - A natural effect that supports relaxation and focus.
Redirects blood flow to the brain - Helping with mental clarity and alertness.
Easy ways to stimulate the vagus nerve with cold exposure:
Splash cold water on your face - or, better still, immerse your face in a sink or bowl of cold water
Take a cold shower or bath
Use a cold compress on your neck or chest
Step outside in cool air (or inside into aircon in SE Asia!
Drink ice water
Cold exposure isn’t just about resilience, it’s a practical tool to reset your nervous system. If you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear your experience. How does cold water make you feel?
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