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This response, often referred to as the dive reflex, slows the heart rate and increases vagal activity as the body works to stabilize itself.—Chloe Burcham, Vogue, 5 Feb. 2026 Studies have shown that higher vagal activation predicts better social connections, higher trust, and increased subjective well-being.—Ximena Araya-Fischel, Forbes.com, 27 July 2025 Talk with your healthcare provider before practicing vagal maneuvers on your own.—Carrie Madormo, Verywell Health, 18 July 2025 For example, a large cluster of vagal neurons clings like a vine to the carotid artery in your neck.—R Douglas Fields, WIRED, 29 Sep. 2024 See All Example Sentences for vagal