The Parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) consists of the nerves and ganglia outside the brain and spinal cord. PNS is part of the involuntary nervous system that serves to slow the heart rate, increase intestinal and glandular activity, and relax the sphincter muscles. The parasympathetic nervous system, together with the sympathetic nervous system, constitutes the autonomic nervous system. PNS allows the body to function in a “rest and digest” state. Consequently, when the parasympathetic system dominates the body, there are increases in salivation and activities in digestion, while heart rate and other sympathetic response decrease. This healing part of our autonomic nervous system and the “breaks” of the body.

Vagal tone (HF) high-frequency is the main indicator of parasympathetic vagal nerve activity and vagal tone health. HF refers to the activity of the vagal nerve, the 10th cranial nerve and a key component of the parasympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system. The vagus nerve initiates 80% of your body relaxation mode. When the sympathetic nervous system goes into over-drive survival mode with fight, flight, and freeze, it signals the HPA axis to release stress hormone cortisol and adrenaline into your body. Through internal support, the vagus nerve puts the brakes and says “Chill Out!”. People who have a stronger vagal tone can rest, recover, and restore much more quickly.