The Power of 'VOO': Vagus Nerve Exercise for Overwhelm

Feeling stuck, depressed, lethargic or checked-out? You may be experiencing a freeze response in your body.

Polyvagal Theory states the vagus nerve mediates our freeze response. In this video, I share some info on the vagus nerve and the role it plays in our felt sense of safety.

I also teach a simple exercise that uses your voice to stimulate your vagus nerve. By exhaling the word "voo," you can stimulate the vagus nerve, which can help you feel safer, more alive, present, and energized. This practice was developed by Dr. Peter Levine.

Important time stamps:
00:00 - Information on the vagus nerve and freeze response
2:16 - Explanation for how "Voo" works to stimulate the Vagus nerve
2:52 - Vagus nerve exercise "Voo"

[YourOasis]

It made me want to laugh by the end. I could feel it in my belly lol

[afoolinthewoods]

You have a such a kind, warm presence. Thank you!

[Stephen-kfum]

I'm currently using a blood sugar monitor. I was getting a big spike this morning. I had an idea that some of my blood sugar spike is due to anxiety.

Then I remembered your Voo video I'd seen a few weeks ago. I did a minutes vooing and by magic my levels shot back down again within 2 minutes!

Thank you for this marvelous resource! 🙏

[rw]

Immediately had an emotional release. Thank you ❤

[Zephyr]

Kind of like a -Do technique 😂 Great exercise, thank you for explaining!

[Livinginthepresentmoment]

Thank you! It made my meditation easier and gave me clarity in my heart. I am free of negativity!

[EmilyWinterSE]

🌀The newest Stealth Somatic Trick is here!
Power Boundaries is a subtle practice to help you feel grounded, clear, and protected — especially when you're feeling drained or overwhelmed by others' energy.

[gatorteacher]

This really works! It helps me when I’m feeling anxious.

[flightrisk]

Thank you so much for these golden nuggets. Great addition to my toolbox. Much favor💚

[winterworld]

Very well produced and presented thanks!

[arfanayousaf]

Thank you so much! I think this might help with my silent reflux cough!!

[steffibaker]

Whoa, that really helped! Thank you Emily!!

[kobalt]

Thank you so much Emily, I really did feel more relaxed after 3 "Voos" .

[birdienumnums]

I cannot quite get that low note, but going as low as I can manage thank you.

[kat]

I've been biting into towels and growling, or biting a pillow and hitting the mattress wile growling.
Of course I've been told that it's childish behaviour...
Might have to wring some towels and tear some paper, and send the critics here.

[stardavies]

Namaste & Thank You for your caring & kindness we need all the tools that we can gather you are a Gift to the World Bless You Stay Blessed & wonderful 230224

[jagtoomajian]

funny my golden gave me the eye too!!

[stepheno]

Similar to Om. Which some monks have been using for a couple of years.

[SnideChick]

Love this practice. Also... you look like you could be Gwyneth Paltrow's sister!

[linw]

Very similar to Om chanting What is the significance of "Voo"?