In the modern world, the prevalence of mental challenges like anxiety has become increasingly prominent. Statistics from 2019 indicated that around 301 million people, including children and adolescents, were affected by anxiety disorders. The weight of these numbers underscores the urgency of addressing these mental health concerns that affect individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life.
In the midst of this prevalent struggle, a beacon of insight emerges in the form of the book ‘Vagus Nerve Healing: Activate your Natural Healing Power and Reduce Anxiety, Depression, Chronic Diseases and Autism’ by Dr. Abraham C. Knox. This read elucidates how by using the innate abilities of our nervous system, we can combat various health issues ranging from anxiety and depression to IBS and more. This review delves into the pages of this enlightening book, seeking to uncover the solutions it proposes and the guidance it provides in addressing these widespread challenges.
Author’s background

Dr. Abraham C. Knox, a distinguished writer, clinical psychologist, and consultant, specialises in addressing human pain and psycho-emotional concerns.

He collaborates with various research organisations, maintains a private practice, and possesses a strong enthusiasm for physiotherapy. Driven by his exceptional expertise, he devotes his time to studying the vagus nerve’s role in managing life-threatening situations and navigating personal connections.
What is the book about?

In ‘Vagus Nerve Healing,’ Dr. Abraham C. Knox delves into the profound impact of the vagus nerve on our overall well-being. These intricate pathways are integral components of the parasympathetic nervous system, playing a pivotal role in regulating various bodily functions.
The book highlights the increasing recognition of the vagus nerve’s importance in treating various conditions like epilepsy, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic migraines. Dr. Knox emphasises the link between mental and physical well-being, illustrating how disruptions in the nervous system’s rhythm can contribute to problems like seizures, autoimmune disorders, and migraines.
The book also explores how stimulating the vagus nerve can optimise overall health. The nerve’s influence extends to areas such as anxiety, depression, hormone regulation, blood pressure, heart rate, blood glucose levels, and the functioning of vital organs like the heart, gallbladder, and kidneys. Its expansive network of connections even extends to fertility and other essential bodily processes.
‘Vagus Nerve Healing’ equips readers with practical tools to:
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Recognise subtle symptoms of vagus nerve dysfunction.
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Activate the vagus nerve through breathing and meditation.
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Initiate the body’s innate self-healing mechanisms with simple lifestyle adjustments.
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Foster vagus nerve healing through supplements, exercise, and innovative techniques like sound therapy.
Three key takeaways from ‘Vagus Nerve Healing’

1Vagus nerve stimulation can alleviate various health issues
Dr. Knox profoundly explains the relationship between the vagus nerve and the various dimensions of human experience. Phobias can profoundly affect one’s life. By exploring the chemical reactions within the amygdala (the brain part that affects how people feel emotions), the book unveils the mechanics of phobias, manifesting as anxiety, avoidance behaviours, and profound disruptions in daily functioning.
The vagus nerve stimulation has the potential to help overcome such difficulties. The vagus nerve stimulation addresses not only phobias but also a myriad of other health challenges, including trauma and irritable bowel syndrome. By recognising the far-reaching impact of the vagus nerve, we can find a new way to healing and well-being.
2Activating the vagus nerve is not only beneficial but also pleasurable
The book takes a deep dive into the techniques that can help activate the vagus nerve. By understanding and stimulating the nerve, you can significantly influence your well-being.
One of the vagal nerve stimulators is breathwork. Through deep breathing techniques, you can activate this nerve, which in turn reduces the effects of stress and anxiety. Breathing slowly and rhythmically at around six times a minute can be particularly calming.
Other methods to stimulate the vagus nerve naturally include:
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Laughing
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Singing, chanting, humming, or gargling
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Meditation
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Full-body exercises
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Breathing exercises
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Engaging in sound-related activities like listening to music
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Splashing cold water on your face or taking cold showers
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Dancing, which combines movement and sound
Incorporating these techniques into your routine can strengthen the vagus nerve and contribute to your overall well-being. By understanding how to activate this nerve, you gain a valuable tool to improve your physical and mental health.

3Using your vagus nerve is the most effective method to deal with anxiety
Vagus nerve stimulation is one of the most efficient ways to naturally manage your anxiety. If you often find yourself worrying too much, feeling sick, or even experiencing chest pain and heart palpitations due to anxiety, you will find the vagus nerve activation techniques very appealing.
By understanding how to activate this nerve, you can control your anxiety levels and find relief anywhere, from home to work meetings. The power of the vagus nerve is exemplified by an FDA-approved implanted device that stimulates it to treat depression. However, surgical options are not the only way. Through simple techniques, you can achieve similar benefits without the need for surgery. The key to managing your anxiety lies in activating the calming pathways of your parasympathetic nervous system, and you can do this indirectly by:
1. Using the diving reflex (immersing your face in cool water)
2. Singing
3. Practicing diaphragmatic breathing
4. Controlling the glottis (back of your tongue) during breathing
These techniques help you stimulate the vagus nerve and regulate your body’s response to anxiety.
Strengths and weaknesses, according to readers’ reviews

Strengths
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Proves practical techniques to activate the Vagus nerve.
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Presents the information in a simple and easy-to-understand manner, making it accessible to a wide range of readers.
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The author’s personal experience with anxiety and panic adds authenticity and relatability to the content, enhancing the reader’s connection to the material.
Weaknesses
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The content of the book appears rather dry and would benefit from the inclusion of success stories of the author’s patients.
Best quotes from ‘Vagus Nerve Healing’

“The vagus nerve deals with human emotions to a great extent and when a long-term trauma strikes a person, just like anxiety and depression, it can alleviate the trauma in no time. According to some experts, it is that magic fix which is required to eradicate any mental issue, because big or small, it causes unrest to arrive in the mind and affect the entire system.”
“Dancing is another physical activity that releases endorphins, reduces stress and causes our body to have a feeling of optimism, happiness, and calm. It also incorporates two key elements – sound and movement which are good for Vagus stimulation.”
“In comparison to the control group, the participants who meditated exhibited an increase in positive emotions like hope, serenity, and joy. Affirmative thinking of other people has been shown to exhibit progress in the operation of the Vagus nerve. The outcome of the study also showed the nerve being better toned than the participants who only meditated.”
Final takeaway

In ‘Vagus Nerve Healing,’ Dr. Abraham C. Knox delves into the intricacies of the vagus nerve’s impact on our well-being. With a focus on the nerve’s profound influence on both physical and mental health, the book serves as a comprehensive guide for readers seeking to understand and activate this vital element of their nervous system. Dr. Knox’s expertise shines through as he connects the dots between the vagus nerve and various health issues, from phobias to anxiety. Through practical techniques like breathwork, meditation, and even dance, readers can tap into the power of the vagus nerve to find relief and improve their overall health.
Anyone interested in holistic well-being, nervous system health, and anxiety management will find this book to be an illuminating and practical resource.
Where to buy
‘Vagus Nerve Healing’ is available for your Kindle on Amazon at the best price.