Why Inflammation and Stress Go Hand in Hand (and What You Can Do About It)
Have you ever wondered why stress and inflammation seem to go hand in hand? The answer lies in one of the most fascinating structures in your body—the vagus nerve.
The Bridge Between Two Systems
We always hear about two important systems: the neurological system and the immune system. But what actually connects them?
The vagus nerve. It's the longest nerve in your body, traveling from your brain stem all the way down through your neck, digestive system, liver, spleen, and more. In fact, the word "vagus" comes from Latin meaning "wandering"—because this nerve literally wanders throughout your entire body.
And here's why that matters for your health: the vagus nerve acts as a bridge between your nervous system and your immune system, helping regulate when inflammation turns on... and more importantly, when it turns off.
When Inflammation Goes Haywire
Your body's inflammation response is actually a good thing—when it works correctly. If you twist your ankle or get injured, inflammation is your body saying "all hands on deck!" to send healing energy to that area.
The problem? Sometimes the body forgets to turn off the inflammatory response. Then we see chronic conditions like autoimmune issues, thyroid problems, and persistent pain.
This is where the vagus nerve becomes your secret weapon. When properly stimulated, it releases acetylcholine—a neurotransmitter that helps calm down overactive immune cells (especially the macrophages, which I like to call your body's "garbage cleaners").
Simple Ways to Support Your Vagus Nerve
Here are a few things you can try at home:
Qigong Breathing: Slow, deep belly breathing with longer exhales. Inhale for 4 counts, exhale for 6. When your exhale is longer than your inhale, it signals your vagus nerve that you're safe.
Ear massage: You can stimulate the vagus nerve by massaging the lower back of your ears.
Humming/chanting: Sound healing. Stimulates the vagus nerve through vocal cord vibration.
Of course, these tips are helpful—but they're just the beginning.
Learn the Anti-Inflammatory Reset (and 15 More)
In my Reset Practitioner course, I teach you exactly how to work with the vagus nerve, thymus, and spleen to address inflammation at its source—plus 15 other resets for everything from stress to digestion to hormonal.
Find the next Reset Course Training here: https://www.janetgalipo.com/trainings