This short meditation with bilateral stimulation incorporates techniques to activate the vagus nerve, calming stress, anxiety, and alleviating insomnia. The techniques in this non-sleep deep rest meditation are designed to activate the vagus nerve which facilitates deep rest and a quiet mind. Bilateral stimulation (BLS) is a technique often used in EMDR therapy and mindfulness practices to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and help reset the nervous system. It is a powerful trauma-informed technique. In addition to the soothing bilateral drumbeat, the video of a peaceful double waterfall in the redwoods offers respite from an overstimulating world. For more information about me, please visit my website at https://drtanishaffer.com/
Bilateral stimulation helps to activate both hemispheres of the brain, promoting nervous system regulation by engaging the parasympathetic system. The goal is to create a calming rhythm that encourages relaxation while maintaining gentle engagement in the present moment with a variety of soothing breathing exercises. The drumbeat was created with a buffalo hide drum that was gifted to me by a Lakota elder. The video filmed in Northern California. Enjoy this music “Pure Nature Sounds-Water Stream in Forest”, composed and licensed from https://www.musicofwisdom.com/
I wish to extend deep appreciation and gratitude to my teachers (Ally Boothroyd, Tiina Kivinen, Kristyn Rose Foster, and Lauretta Dunford) in this beautiful program which I highly recommend: https://allyboothroyd.com/yoga-teacher-trainings/
For more information about the vagus nerve, see this helpful video: https://youtu.be/2rJvWLN8rtE?si=CsEqE4SEh0ErYO45
