My favorite nervous system regulation hack

Описание: The action of placing your hand in your armpit and hugging yourself with the other hand can help regulate your nervous system due to a combination of physical and psychological effects. Here's how it works:

1. Activating the Parasympathetic Nervous System
This type of self-hugging posture stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the "rest and digest" functions, calming the body after a stress response. This contrasts with the sympathetic nervous system, which triggers the "fight or flight" response. The touch of your hand under your armpit, along with the sensation of your arms crossing your chest, can send calming signals to the brain, reducing stress.

2. Grounding Through Physical Touch
Physical touch, even self-touch, can have a soothing effect on the body. When you place your hand in your armpit and hug yourself, you're engaging in grounding, which can help you reconnect with your body and reduce feelings of anxiety or emotional overwhelm. This physical connection to yourself provides comfort and can help bring your mind to the present moment.

3. Pressure and Proprioceptive Input
Gentle pressure from the self-hug can provide proprioceptive input, which is the body's sense of where it is in space. This kind of deep pressure stimulation can be calming because it engages your sensory system in a way that provides reassurance and stability. The act of holding yourself can mimic the comfort provided by another person's hug, which has been shown to reduce levels of cortisol (the stress hormone).

4. Oxytocin Release
Hugs, even self-hugs, can stimulate the release of oxytocin, sometimes called the "love hormone." Oxytocin helps reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and promote feelings of safety and connection, even when it comes from your own self-embrace.

5. Tapping into Somatic Practices
In somatic therapies, which focus on the connection between the body and mind, this type of movement is often used to help people feel more secure and grounded. Crossing your arms and putting your hand in your armpit can feel like a protective gesture, signaling to the brain that you are safe.

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