The Nerve That Supports Digestion and The Massage That Supports The Nerve
It’s Vagus, baby!
How Massage Supports Digestion by Boosting Vagus Nerve Health
The vagus nerve is the body’s communication hub, connecting the brain to key organs, including the digestive system. Your vagus nerve is essential for proper communication between your brain and gut, a system often referred to as the gut-brain axis. When your vagus nerve is working as it should, your brain sends signals to your gut, ensuring it digests food and processes nutrients effectively. If this nerve isn’t working well, the brain can’t communicate properly with the gut, leading to digestive issues like bloating, discomfort, and even mood imbalances. And when stress hormones like cortisol are introduced into the mix, it only exacerbates the problem.
Massage can play a key role in improving vagus nerve function. By gently working on the abdomen and other key areas, massage helps stimulate the vagus nerve, nudging your body into a calm, relaxed state. This encourages more efficient digestion, reduces bloating, and supports overall gut health.
When paired with other stress-relieving practices—such as yoga, deep breathing, and mindful movement—massage can be a powerful tool for improving vagal tone. Together, these techniques help the body relax, restore balance, and optimize digestion. Regular massage not only helps reduce stress but also promotes better gut health, making it a simple yet effective way to keep your digestion on track and your body feeling great.