How Stimulating the Vagus Nerve May Help Calm the Mind and Body

Modern science is beginning to echo what holistic traditions have understood for centuries: that the nervous system plays a central role in how we experience stress, balance, and emotional well-being. One vital pathway within this system — the vagus nerve — is now emerging as a promising focus for both research and wellness practices.

An article published by Scientific American explores how gentle vagus nerve stimulation may benefit individuals dealing with everything from long COVID to mood disorders. While many studies center on electronic stimulation devices, natural approaches are quickly gaining attention as well.

What Is the Vagus Nerve?

The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body, extending from the brainstem throughout the chest and abdomen. It plays a key role in regulating:

• Heart rate and cardiovascular response
• Digestive function and gut-brain communication
• Stress response and emotional regulation

When functioning optimally, this nerve helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system — often called the “rest and digest” mode — allowing the body to unwind, heal, and reset.

Why Gentle Stimulation May Help

The auricular branch of the vagus nerve, which surfaces near the outer ear, is uniquely accessible and may respond well to non-invasive stimulation. According to early studies, this area shows promise in helping with:

• Relief from tension, stress, and anxiety
• Improved mood and emotional balance
• Calming an overactive nervous system
• Supporting resilience and recovery

How We Support Vagus Nerve Wellness

At Bee Well CBD Oil, we’ve crafted specific products designed for easy, natural application behind the ear — where the auricular branch of the vagus nerve is most accessible. Our popular roll-ons, Stress-Less and Mind/Body Balance combine full-spectrum CBD with, in each case, a specific selection of calming essential oils like lavender, frankincense, bergamot, lime and clove.

Many customers report feeling grounded and more emotionally centered just moments after use — a testament to the synergy between targeted application and aromatherapeutic support.

Other Ways to Support the Vagus Nerve

In addition to topical CBD, consider adding some of these natural techniques to your wellness routine:

• Slow, rhythmic breathing with long exhales
• Chanting, humming, or singing softly
• Cool water on the face or back of the neck
• Daily mindfulness or yoga practice
• Regular hydration and restorative sleep

Final Thoughts

As our understanding of the vagus nerve continues to grow, so does the importance of supporting it gently and naturally. Whether you’re navigating daily stress, seeking emotional clarity, or deepening your self-care practice, stimulating this key nerve through thoughtful wellness practices may offer lasting benefits.

For those exploring plant-based approaches to calm and balance, our CBD roll-ons are crafted with this very goal in mind.

Sources:
Scientific American: Zapping the Vagus Nerve Could Relieve Some Long COVID Symptoms