Meditation to Tune the Vagus Nerve

September 7, 1978

Allopathic medicine is beginning to describe the vagus nerve as the foundation of all health, not just physical, but mental and emotional health too. The vagus nerve is maintainer of coherence; it keeps so many body systems operating on the same rhythm, helps to regulate our thoughts and emotions, and increases our capacity for healthy connection with others. Many aspects of Kundalini Yoga practice tone the vagus nerve, and this practice does so strongly and directly. To dive deeper into the vagus nerve, read Arete’s article Polyvagal Theory (LINK).

EK refers to infinite light and ONG KAR is the creation, or the vehicle which carries everything, including the infinite light and creativity of the divine. ONG KAR delivers the magnetic field of cosmic consciousness into defined finite form.

When these two mantras are chanted in this specific way, it creates air pressure against the upper palate, which stimulates the mind and the brain; it is this pressure that tones the vagus nerve. If the tongue touches the upper palate, this delicate and subtle balance is destroyed. The harder you squeeze your hands together, the better you may feel.

Illustration of Jerry sitting in easy pose (Sukhasana) in a straight spine, with hands interlocking together, thumbs touching along the sides. Placing the mudra in front of his Heart Center (Anahata Chakra), with elbows resting against his sides.

Posture & Mudra: 

Sit in Easy Pose (Sukhasana) with a straight spine. Interlace the hands and cross the thumbs, holding the mudra on your Heart Center (Anahata Chakra). Keep the hands squeezed tightly.

Mantra & Breath:

Chant each mantra in a monotone in a continuous, unbroken rhythm with no pause between repetitions. Pronounce the words correctly, but do not strike the upper palate with the tongue as you chant, and avoid speeding up.

  • Chant “ONG KAR” in this way for 11 minutes.
  • Chant “EK ONG KAR” in this way for 11 minutes.

Eyes/Drishti:

1/10th open.

Mindful Attention:

Focus on the sound and rhythm of the mantra. Feel the difference in the effects of each.

Duration: 

Continue for 22 minutes. Practice each mantra for 11 minutes or the same amount of time.

Access Level
Premium
Lineage
Kundalini
Does this practice have mantras?
Yes
What is the time range for this practice?
12-31 Minutes
Teacher
Yogi Bhajan