How to Know If Your Vagus Nerve Is Healthy
- Bryson R. Tibbitts
- Sep 17
- 2 min read
Simple signs that reveal how well your nervous system is regulating
The vagus nerve is a vital communication link between your brain and body. It regulates stress, digestion, sleep, and mood. But how can you tell if it’s functioning well? You cannot see the vagus nerve directly, but you can observe its effects in daily life.
What a Healthy Vagus Nerve Looks Like
When vagus nerve tone is strong, your body adapts quickly to change. Signs of good vagal tone include:
Stress recovery: calming down soon after stressful events.
Digestive ease: meals pass without bloating or discomfort.
Restful sleep: falling asleep and staying asleep is consistent.
Balanced mood: quick recovery from setbacks, stable emotional state.
Efficient healing: bouncing back from minor illness or exertion.
Researchers often use heart rate variability (HRV) as a measure of vagal tone. Higher HRV generally means your nervous system is more flexible and resilient.
Signs Your Vagus Nerve May Need Help
If vagal tone is low, the body can get stuck in “fight or flight.” Red flags include:
Anxiety or tension that lingers long after stress is over
Persistent digestive issues (IBS, bloating, reflux)
Chronic fatigue or low energy despite rest
Difficulty falling or staying asleep
Feeling dizzy or lightheaded when standing
Slower recovery from illness or injury
These signs don’t mean the vagus nerve is broken, but they do suggest it could use more support.
Why This Matters
The vagus nerve is your body’s reset switch. If it’s weak, the nervous system has a harder time calming down, digesting properly, and maintaining emotional balance. Knowing the signs is the first step toward supporting your nervous system.
Want to test and improve your vagus nerve tone? Download our free Vagus Nerve Regulation Guide for simple at-home practices that strengthen your nervous system and improve resilience.
To discuss treatment options or schedule a consultation, contact us today.
Key Take-away:
A healthy vagus nerve shows up in resilience: calm recovery after stress, smooth digestion, deeper sleep, stable mood, and quicker healing. If these are missing, your vagus nerve may need support.
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