What Happens in Vagus, Stays in the Body!?

The groundbreaking book The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk explores how trauma is stored in the body and how it can impact the brain, emotions, and overall quality of life.

In this context, trauma can be understood as a form of “stuckness” in the nervous system. When the nervous system is stuck in a protective state, the body remains on high alert—locked into fight, flight, or freeze—rather than shifting into the parasympathetic “rest and digest” state that supports healing and restoration.

The vagus nerve plays a central role in this process. It helps regulate involuntary functions such as breathing, heart rate, and digestion, while also supporting our ability to sense internal body signals and process emotions. In many ways, it acts as a communication pathway between the body and the brain.

Trauma-informed yoga supports nervous system regulation by creating conditions of safety, choice, and self-compassion. Through mindful movement, breath awareness, and invitational language, the body is gradually supported in releasing stored stress and restoring a sense of balance and resilience. Rather than overwhelming the system, this approach empowers individuals to move at their own pace and reconnect with their bodies.

When vagal tone is strengthened, the nervous system becomes more flexible and grounded. This can lead to reduced anxiety and PTSD symptoms, improved sleep, greater emotional regulation, and a deeper sense of body awareness.