By the end of this course, you will (1) explain the anatomy and function of the vagus nerve and (2) apply manual and breathing techniques to regulate the autonomic nervous system. Presented by John Wilks, this course explores the neurophysiological foundation of vagus nerve stimulation and its clinical relevance for pain, recovery, and emotional regulation.
You’ll learn palpation-based methods, breathing strategies, and self-regulation techniques that promote vagal tone and parasympathetic balance. Through video demonstrations, readings, and case examples, you’ll connect nervous system theory with hands-on practice. What makes this course unique is its integration of bodywork and neuroscience—providing evidence-informed tools to enhance manual therapy outcomes and client resilience.
Module 1 introduces the vagus nerve as a key driver of the parasympathetic nervous system and explores its role in regulating digestion, heart rate, breathing, immune function, speech and swallowing, and the stress response. The instructor explains how the vagus influences the autonomic nervous system and why vagal tone is a critical marker of nervous system resilience. You will learn the full anatomical pathway of the vagus — from its origin in the brainstem, through the jugular foramen, down the neck, and into the thoracic and abdominal organs — and how this “wandering nerve” communicates between the brain and body. The module also examines how trauma, chronic stress, posture, and breathing patterns impact vagal signalling and why a dysregulated vagus may contribute to symptoms such as anxiety, fatigue, digestive dysfunction, dysautonomia, and difficulty regulating stress states. By the end of this module, students will understand how vagus function affects emotional regulation, physiological calm, and overall wellbeing.
涵盖的内容
7个视频3篇阅读材料1个作业1个讨论话题
显示有关单元内容的信息
7个视频•总计69分钟
Introduction •2分钟
Course Overview•2分钟
Vagus and the Autonomic Nervous System•9分钟
Polyvagal Theory•3分钟
Functions of the Vagus Nerve•25分钟
Safety and Compassion•15分钟
Engaging the Vagus Nerve•13分钟
3篇阅读材料•总计25分钟
Syllabus•5分钟
Course Workbook•10分钟
Module 1 — Understanding the Vagus Nerve•10分钟
1个作业•总计15分钟
Practice Assignment•15分钟
1个讨论话题•总计10分钟
Introduction•10分钟
Assessment, Manual Techniques, and Vagus Stimulation Strategies
第 2 单元•小时 后完成
单元详情
Module 2 focuses on practical application: how the vagus nerve can be influenced through manual therapy and specific client self-regulation exercises. You will learn where the vagus is vulnerable to mechanical or fascial entrapment — especially at the jugular foramen, the upper cervical spine (atlas/axis), under the clavicle, and in the thoracic inlet — and how these sites may contribute to symptoms such as swallowing issues, dizziness, hyperacusis, gastrointestinal problems, headaches, and autonomic instability.
涵盖的内容
6个视频1个作业
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6个视频•总计42分钟
Nerve Entrapment•11分钟
Neck Instability and Posture
•4分钟
Interconnectivity•7分钟
Approaches to Support the Autonomic Nervous System
•15分钟
New Video•2分钟
Music•3分钟
1个作业•总计15分钟
Module Reflection Quiz•15分钟
Manual Intervention
第 3 单元•小时 后完成
单元详情
The instructor demonstrates assessment methods such as observing uvula deviation to identify potential vagal involvement and palpation strategies to explore cervical and suboccipital tissue behaviour. Practical techniques are shown to reduce compression at key anatomical points and improve vagal signalling, including work around the upper cervical fascia, sternocleidomastoid, and clavicular region. By the end, students will have actionable, client-safe techniques and movement cues to help reduce nervous system overload and improve vagal tone in clinical practice.
涵盖的内容
2个视频1篇阅读材料1个作业1个讨论话题
显示有关单元内容的信息
2个视频•总计24分钟
Manual Intervention 1
•8分钟
Manual Intervention 2
•16分钟
1篇阅读材料•总计10分钟
Module 2 — Manual Therapy, Assessment, and Self-Regulation•10分钟
1个作业•总计20分钟
Untitled•20分钟
1个讨论话题•总计10分钟
Summary•10分钟
Final Reflective Exam
第 4 单元•小时 后完成
单元详情
This final exam is designed to assess your understanding of the key concepts presented throughout the course. Please review all video lessons and written materials before beginning. A passing score of 70% or higher is required to successfully complete the course and earn your CE certificate. You may reference your notes during the exam. Once you pass, your certificate will be available for immediate download.
Niel Asher Education is a world leader in evidence-based online education for massage therapists, manual therapists, and allied health professionals. Our mission is to empower practitioners worldwide with accessible, high-quality training that bridges traditional bodywork, modern rehabilitation, and integrative health science.
When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?
To access the course materials, assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience when you enroll in a course. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid. The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
What will I get if I subscribe to this Specialization?
When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.