The Vagus Nerve - Key to Calm, Recovery and Health?

The vagus nerve is the body's longest cranial nerve, running from the brainstem to the heart, lungs and intestines. It regulates fundamental functions such as heartbeat, digestion and breathing, and is closely linked to mental health - and recent research suggests it also plays a role in immune function.

What happens when the vagus nerve is stimulated electrically? Can it be used to treat autoimmune diseases, stress, anxiety and depression? And how can you influence it in everyday life?

These questions are explored by neurobiologist and Ph.D. in health sciences Karen Johanne Pallesen, who works on the connection between the vagus nerve, stress and recovery, and doctor and Ph.D. student Amanda Hempel Zinglersen from Rigshospitalet, who researches vagus nerve stimulation in patients with autoimmune diseases and has conducted a clinical trial with handheld electrical home stimulation. Science journalist Line Friis Frederiksen moderates the discussion.

The event is part of Folkeuniversitetet's knowledge festival Hearts & Minds and takes place in the Rampen room.