The VAGUS Rule
Date and time
What happens here stays here...in the body that is. We will discuss the effects that unprocessed trauma has on our bodies.
About this event
All stress is not created equal, and neither are stress-related health outcomes.Individuals living below the poverty level have poorer mental health, are diagnosed with more chronic health conditions, and have shorter lifespans. Black Americans face greater exposure to physical threats and are more likely to witness violence or be victims of violent assault. More than 22 percent of black Americans live at or below the poverty level, many in communities where discrimination and deprivation prevent them from accessing the necessary resources, such as wealth and education, to reduce threat exposure or even recover from it. Poverty is a stressor.Repetitive stress affects the bodies’ physical response to new stressors. Sometimes it can even increase the intensity of we respond to triggers or new traumas. The vagus nerve plays a critical role in our overall health and well-being; it is one of the largest nerve systems in our body. The vagus nerve is used to send a variety of signals throughout the body while continually sending updated sensory information about the state of our organs back to the brain. In this way, the vagus nerve can be compared to the vegas rule – the unprocessed traumas and toxic stress that is introduced into our bodies – stays within our bodies. The vagus nerve is especially important because it stimulates the body’s relaxation response to induce recovery and self-regulation. It is also important to note that the vagus nerve influences oxytocin, a hormone connected to social bonding.
We will talk about how trauma is stored within our bodies and how to process trauma in a healthy way.
Join us each week for an interactive discussion about Mental Health and Wellness within the Black community.
Every week we will explore a different topic that addresses: the mental and physical impact of trauma, transforming the stigma around mental health, available support resources, and how we can heal from personal, racial and community traumas.
If there is a specific topic related to Black Mental Health and Wellness that you would like to hear discussed, send us your idea. If you have an area of expertise that you would like to share with the community, contact us. If you have a related organization or service that you provide, let's talk. We’d love to hear from you!
**Be advised that subject matter may not be appropriate for young children. Light refreshment will be served. There is free parking at the site.**
