Vagus nerve stimulation and social engagement

[no1]

Has anyone heard of this therapy?

It seems to pose as a pretty decent form of therapy for social anxiety as well as many other things.

I recently ordered a StressEraser device because it proposes to help one relax by stimulating the vagus nerve through breath to harmonize it with the heartrate variability.

 

[davidburke]

i haven't heard of it but it sounds kind a fishy to me

 

[no1]

i haven't heard of it but it sounds kind a fishy to me

Polyvagal theory..

 

[grimaldi]

where did you get this is there any information on the web??

 

[klytus]

The Polyvagal Theory

Appears to be peer-reviewed research. However, the "StressEraser" device is exempt from FDA registration, since there are no indications of possible health-related side effects. That does not mean, that it is in any way useful for what it promises to do.

 

[no1]

Vagal nerve stimulation has helped the autistic become better at social situations...

 

[Anubis]

Hmmm, isn't this common sense?

It says you're using breathing techniques to stimulate your vagus nerve - which is associated with your rest/digest system as opposed to your fight/flight system. And I imagine these breathing techniques are slow, long, and full. That's sounds a lot like what every cure for stress involves, like meditation or hypnosis.

Could be over-simplifying it, but that's just my suspicion. It's not bad advice though.

 

[Lea]

I looked up the stress eraser, after my experiences I wouldn't expect too much of it. Reminds me of something called psychowalkman, I tried it in the shop, about half an hour and didn't feel any change. Well it might help of course, but I don't think it will be any significant change.