Dr Ravindran recommends exercise, particularly yoga, for improving vagal tone. Yogi and founder of The Yoga Class Laura Dodd finds restorative yoga postures such as supported fish pose or legs up the wall are her go-to moves after a stressful day.

“They truly help me switch off my mind and find a deep state of relaxation,” she says. “As well as stimulating the vagus nerve, the heart-opening nature of these poses helps promote deeper, more effective breathing and relief for upper back and neck tension.”

How to do a supported fish pose (matsyasana)

Unlike full fish pose, this gentle backbend uses props to promote relaxation. You may wish to use a block under the head, one positioned between the shoulder blades or just a bolster down the length of the spine.
Lie down on your props with your legs straight and arms relaxed by your sides.
Feel an opening in the upper chest area and come to a slow, deep belly breath for at least five minutes.

5 easy vagus nerve exercises for reducing stress and improving, according to the experts