Part 11. Gentle Acupressure for the Vagus Nerve

Touch is the first language of safety. From the earliest days of life, a caregiver’s gentle, intentional touch tells a child’s nervous system,

“You are safe. You are held.”

Through mindful touch, we can help calm the vagus nerve — the body’s natural pathway of regulation, rest, and connection. 

Acupressure is one of the simplest, most loving ways to restore balance. It’s not about applying force. It’s about presence, breath, and intention. Even the lightest touch — when held with warmth and awareness — can shift the body’s state from alertness to calm.

✨ Touch communicates what words cannot.

When paired with slow breathing, it activates the parasympathetic nervous system — lowering heart rate, relaxing muscles, and inviting the body back into peace.

TRY THESE Gentle Points to Soothe and Ground Your Child

🔹 Behind the Ears (GB20 area)

Supports relaxation and calms the nervous system.

 ➡️ Place two fingertips gently in the hollows just below the skull, behind 

 each ear.

 ➡️ Breathe slowly together for 5–10 seconds.

🔹 Between the Eyebrows (Yintang / “Third Eye”)

 Calms the mind, eases worry and softens emotional tension.

 ➡️Rest one fingertip lightly between the eyebrows, as if smoothing away 

 concern.

 ➡️Invite your child to close their eyes and breathe deeply.

🔹Center of the Chest (CV17 / “Sea of Tranquility”)

 Balances the heart, breath, and emotions.

 ➡️Place your palm gently over the center of the chest.

 ➡️Breathe slowly in unison, feeling each other’s rhythm.

🔹Inside of the Wrist (PC6 / “Inner Gate”)

 Releases fear, anxiety, and restlessness.

 ➡️Gently trace small circles on the inner wrist with your thumb for 10 

 seconds.

 ➡️Encourage your child to notice their breath slowing down.

🔹Soles of the Feet (K1 / “Bubbling Spring”)

 Grounds the body and restores stability after overstimulation.

 ➡️Massage the center of the foot in slow, circular motions.

 ➡️Imagine roots growing deep into the earth — steady, calm, and safe.

💡 DID YOU KNOW?

Studies show that light acupressure can activate parasympathetic pathways through the vagus nerve, helping to lower cortisol, regulate heartbeat, and enhance emotional calm. When combined with slow breathing, warmth, and intention, it helps the child’s body re-enter a state of safety and trust.

✨ Every touch carries energy — let yours be steady, kind, and full of love.

 Your hands become the bridge between the child’s body and their inner peace.

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Stay tuned for Part 12: Healing Touch — Massage Techniques to Calm the Child