Calming the Nerves using Touch
One of the exercises I often suggest that clients use and also use myself is using the soothing power of touch. Putting your hand on your heart or giving yourself a hug can be beneficial for several reasons.
It can help calm and soothe your nerves. The act of physical touch, especially on the heart area, can release feel-good hormones like oxytocin, which can help reduce stress and anxiety.
It can improve your mood. By giving yourself a hug, you can stimulate the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and emotions. This can help improve your overall sense of well-being and happiness.
It can boost your immune system. Hugging, especially when it's accompanied by positive feelings, can increase the production of white blood cells, which help your body fight off illness and infection.
It can promote a sense of connectedness and support. By physically touching yourself in a caring and loving way, you can remind yourself that you are not alone and that you have the ability to take care of yourself. This can help increase your sense of self-worth and self-love.
It can be a form of self-care. Taking time to nurture and care for yourself, whether it's through physical touch or other means, is an important part of maintaining your mental and emotional health. By giving yourself a hug or putting your hand on your heart, you can show yourself that you are worthy of love and care.
Try it out yourself and it is especially effective combined with saying a positive or encouraging affirmation towards ourselves such as “May I be safe, may I be well, may I be happy, may I be at ease”.