The vagus nerve has a branch that extends to the ear. You can benefit from massaging the lobe just outside the ear canal to stimulate this nerve. At the pain clinic, we frequently use what is known as TENS vagus stimulation, where an ear electrode is placed at this point on the left ear, and using a TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) device, the vagus nerve is stimulated and activated with a mild electrical impulse of 2 to 4-5mA for 15 minutes, once or twice a day. The stimulation can continue at home as part of a daily routine, preferably combined with mindful breathing or a body scan/Yoga Nidra practice.

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The purpose of the stimulation is to connect to and activate the vagus nerve and restore proper vagus function. To achieve this, it is necessary to create a safe space, take a moment to pause, clear space in your schedule, and allow yourself to simply be – not do!

 

Mathilde will be holding two "free" webinars on TENS vagus stimulation this fall.