10% Happier podcast artwork

Host

Dan Harris

Guest

Dr. Kevin Tracey, MD, President and CEO of the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research at Northwell Health, and author of The Great Nerve: The New Science of the Vagus Nerve and How to Harness Its Healing Reflexes

The vagus nerve may be one of the most important and least understood parts of the human body. As a pioneer of vagus nerve research, Dr. Kevin Tracey joins Dan Harris to unpack the cutting-edge science behind how this remarkable nerve regulates our physical and emotional health, and what we can actually do about it.

Key takeaways include:

  • Vagal Tone and Why It Matters: Higher vagal tone is associated with better heart health, greater emotional resilience, and a stronger ability to recover from stress. It is a measurable marker of how well our nervous system is functioning.
  • Inflammation as a Key Target: Dr. Tracey’s research reveals how the vagus nerve directly influences the body’s inflammatory response, opening new possibilities for treating chronic illness and improving long-term health.
  • Practical Ways to Strengthen the Vagus Nerve: The conversation explores evidence-based strategies for increasing vagal tone through everyday practices that support nervous system regulation.

Ten Percent Happier with Dan Harris offers practical tools and expert conversations for a calmer, more mindful life. New Episodes air every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

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