The vagus nerve helps to regulate a vast array of bodily functions necessary for maintaining homeostasis. Whereas the sympathetic chain extends from the spinal nerves and supports the state of stress and mobilization for survival, several of the cranial nerves support non-stress states. One of the primary functions of the cranial nerves is to facilitate rest and restitution. They also enable the senses of sight, smell, taste, and hearing, as well as the sense of touch on the skin of the face. In mam-mals, some of the cranial nerves work together to facilitate and promote social behavior.
