The thymus is a gland located behind the breastbone that plays a key role in immune function. It is where T-cells mature and learn to distinguish self from non-self. The thymus is largest in childhood and gradually shrinks with age.
Key Functions
- •T-cell maturation — trains immune cells
- •Immune competence — strong thymus = robust immune response
- •Stress sensitivity — chronic stress can impair thymic function
In ONDA Life
Part 5 aims to "restore the link between the sense of social safety and a powerful immune response" through the thymus. When the nervous system perceives safety (ventral vagal state), immune function can operate optimally.
Scientific Basis
Built on: Polyvagal Theory (Porges); Psychoneuroimmunology (Ader & Cohen); neuroplasticity research.