2 minute self-care practice
Back in the swing after the December break, you might have caught yourself thinking, “I don’t have time to think about or do anything about my stress during the school day.” Sound familiar? We all have times when we experience higher levels of stress, or have more on our plates than usual, and it seems like a big task to add anything else into our day.
The good news is that awareness is the first step; anytime you can recognize where you are emotionally, or recognize a fixed mindset thought, you are already on your way to supporting your wellness. After that awareness, pause and think, “That is my first thought. My second thought is, “I can take 30 seconds/1 minute/2 minutes to take care of myself.” When that occurs, here is a perfect tool to add to your self-care tool box: a 2 minute self hand massage. Here are the steps:
Take 3 deep relaxation breaths. For maximum benefit, continue deep breathing throughout the whole hand massage.
With both palms turned upwards, rest your right hand in the palm of your left hand. Envision receiving all the good qi or energy the universe has to offer into your open hands.
Start massaging around the wrist and bottom of your right hand with the thumb of your left hand. Notice any sensations. If there’s a tender point, massage that area a little longer to get the energy qi flowing.
Move up to the center of the palm. Using your thumb, massage the entire palm with small circular movements
Next, give attention to each finger. Wrap the fingers of your left hand around the base of your thumb. Move up the thumb and massage from bottom, up the finger, around the nail bed, all the way to the tip.
Continue on to your other 4 fingers. Gently massage each finger, one at a time, taking the time to feel the valley between each finger before moving to the next one.
Once you’re done with your fingers, turn your hand over and massage the back side. With gentle pressure, move into the dips between your metatarsal bones and joints.
Repeat on the other hand
Take a moment after you finish to notice how you feel. Thank yourself for taking a moment for self care.
This hand massage is a perfect tool to help relieve stress and create a mindful space during the school day, or when you get in your car to head home, or in bed at night to help you relax into a good night’s sleep. You might also think about where you could habit stack this tool as it is a wonderful daily practice. You can practice it anywhere to help you calm down, become present, and feel good. Give it a try!
