Definition

In a manner related to the vagus nerve, which is a major nerve in the body that affects various functions such as heart rate and digestion.

Example

The heart rate can be influenced vagally during moments of relaxation.

Conversation

Did you know that deep breathing can influence your heart rate?

Really? How does that work?

It activates the vagus nerve and can help you relax vagally.

That's interesting! I might try that next time I'm stressed.

Root Explanation

Vagally → It is derived from "vagal" (from Latin "vagus", meaning wandering) and the adverbial suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The term "vagally" refers to actions or effects that are related to or occur in a wandering manner, particularly in relation to the vagus nerve in the body.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'vagal' which comes from 'vagus', meaning wandering, and remember that 'vagally' describes something that happens in a wandering manner, especially in relation to the vagus nerve.

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