Working with the Autonomic Nervous System – Part A

The Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) includes the 10th Cranial nerve, the Vagus Nerve. This nerve comprises of the more primitive Dorsal Vagus nerve which connects the gut with the brain; as well as the supra diaphragmatic Ventral Vagus nerve. I will explain more about this in Part B next month. 
 

With stress the skin, which is the largest organ in the body, and the gut, are the most responsive. This explains why digestive issues such as stomach ulcers,  acid reflux, and IBS are associated with such an individual's high level of stress, as the Dorsal Vagus Nerve is expressed. 

Polyvagal Theory is the work of the Professor of Psychiatry Stephen Porges. This approach involves understanding that visceral reactions inform thoughts and feelings. Accessing the Ventral Vagus Nerve alters the neurological responses ie the way we think and feel! 

In the Christian faith, we are encouraged that the Lord ministered to Elijah when Elijah had depression, with food and sleep, addressing his physical need before his psychological health as this comes through the body.
 

"All at once an angel touched him and said "Get up and eat". He looked around and there by his head was some bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water....The angel of the Lord came back a second time and touched him and said, "Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you""
1Kings 19.5b, 6a, 7. 

All Bible quotations are from the NIV.
Susie Scott Kydd. Copyright 2025