Discussion: Self-Regulation & Fasting

Join the conversation as we consider how self-regulation supports engaging in fasting!

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Again, I am somewhat repeating the journey I took behind the scenes when I wrote Trauma in the Pews. The focus then was getting the book written, while this time I can take time to explore the possibilities of what I learned. I am writing this post before diving in with you and will be sharing my answers to the Focus Question right along with you. I am looking forward to the conversation! (And OK with silence!)

Additional Information About the Vagus Nerve:

The Vagus Nerve (More Information and Source)
Your vagus nerves are the longest cranial nerve, running from your brain to your large intestine. Your left vagus nerve travels down the left side of your body. The right vagus nerve travels down the right side of your body.

Vagus is the Latin word for wandering. Your vagal nerves take a long, winding course through your body. They exit from your medulla oblongata in your lower brainstem. Then, the nerves pass through or connect with your neck (between your carotid artery and jugular vein), chest (thorax), heart. Lungs, abdomen, and digestive tract.

The Vagus Nerve, Self-Regulation, and Fasting
To understand the value of fasting we need to explore how the vagus nerve enables self-regulation. The vagus nerve (actually two nerves) is one of twelve cranial nerves and connects the brain to the heart and digestive system. It is composed of two main nerves, the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) and the sympathetic nervous system (SNS). These two nerves make up the ANS that is the focus of self-regulation. The SNS is what enables the body to go into action when stress or threat is present (fight/flight). The PNS helps the body to rest and digest. Fasting has been found to be a beneficial way to help the PNS more effectively rest, digest, and repair. Thus, fasting can have value when acknowledging the impact of trauma.

Activating the Vagus Nerve
Even the simple act of sighing deeply can activate the Vagus Nerve. “The vagus nerve is what activates the parasympathetic nervous system. It is connected to your vocal chords and the muscles at the back of your throat. You can physically stimulate the vagus nerve through gargling, singing, om-ing, and laughing. The physical feeling of your vocal cords can activate the vagus nerve! Chant, laugh, hum, sing om-mantras, whatever you feel like doing, to support your nervous system.” (More information and Source)

Reflection Questions: Trauma-Sensitive Fasting