https://apple.news/ATM0MCiPnRPK19VxRRBWyVw (if the link won’t work, Search for Scientific American, Untangling the vagus nerve) Hello all - I hope the link above works for at least some of you - an article in Scientific American (so an reputable popular science publication) about the vagus nerve (VN) and its role in physical and mental health. Quite a bit is well known already and the studies of VN stimulation in depression look promising. Also, the author notes the role VN plays in achieving the ‘rest and digest’ state - so clearly of importance to us here (I enjoyed Ayla’s VN practice recently). Something that struck me that some people might dismiss - the trials of the VN stimulation device showed a high placebo response (that is, people not receiving active stimulation responded as if they were) - this is common in studies of psychiatric interventions - sometimes leading to dismissal of research methods. BUT I suggest a different view - our subconscious minds know what is good for us and can self regulate, self repair where it is allowed to. The article also mentions the VN’s involvement in dopamine release - that strikes me as pretty important too. In a world where consumption and spending rule supreme, and a drug is needed for every disease, isn’t it a gift that we have inherent, natural and accessible ways to help heal our minds and nervous systems and even, in some cases our bodies too (see the points made about inflammation in the article)? And it doesn’t cost money, doesn’t need health insurance. Just the ability to be still for a while. @Ayla Nova - when are you opening the Nova Nidra Research Institute to study this more? Wishing you all happy and restful holidays, whether you celebrate them or not