BLOG 238: MY 2 QUICKEST 1 MINUTE STRESS BUSTING TIPS

Today I want to share with you two quick techniques that can help reduce feelings and symptoms of stress within a minute. These simple but effective Yoga inspired tools are easy to fit into a busy day. You can also enjoy this as a video on my YouTube channel, Face Yoga Expert.  

1. BREATHWORK

Breathing – it’s a simple function our body performs virtually unnoticed. It is also possibly the most underutilised tool we have yet in my opinion, when done properly, is the most effective wellness hack we can do. 

HOW TO DO THIS EASY BREATHWORK TECHNIQUE

First, sit comfortably anywhere you like. With your spine straight and relaxed shoulders, begin by gently inhaling through your nose. Envision filling your whole belly with fresh air as it expands gently. Now sip in just a bit more air in there before beginning to exhale, but through the mouth this time, releasing all the pent-up stress as your abdomen recedes.

BENEFITS OF THIS BREATHWORK TECHNIQUE FOR REDUCING ANXIETY

Breathing is such a simple act, but the rewards it grants are monumental, especially regarding anxiety reduction. First off, breathwork promotes relaxation by activating the body’s natural relaxation response. By focusing on your breathing, you’re able to divert attention away from those anxious thoughts and ground yourself in the present moment.

On top of that, slow, deep breaths increase oxygen flow to your brain – promoting mental clarity and quelling your racing mind! Research shows conscious, controlled breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system – essentially hitting the brakes on the stress response.

TIPS FOR MAKING BREATHWORK A HABIT

Forming any habit requires consistency, and it’s no different when it comes to breathwork. Consider setting a daily reminder to simply breathe. This could be as soon as you wake up, right before bed, or at any stressful junction during your day. 

Associating breathwork with certain activities can also aid in adopting this practice into your daily routine. For instance, while waiting for the kettle to boil or at the red light during your commute – those spare moments can be turned into quality breathing time. 

Remember, just like brushing teeth, gradual persistence will turn these moments of mindfulness into second nature!

2. CHEST TAPPING

Rooted in ancient practices, chest or thymus tapping can be an excellent approach to alleviate built-up anxiety and stress.

HOW TO DO THE THYMUS TAPPING TECHNIQUE

Position your fingers in a fist gently on your chest area – right on your thymus gland. Start softly tapping at a pace and pressure you find most comfortable. Soon enough, the rhythm of this ‘tap dance’ will begin to work its magic.

BENEFITS OF CHEST TAPPING

Tapping gently on your chest deeply calms the emotional chaos. This easy technique does more than just calming; it also helps boost your immune system.

That’s because the gentle tapping vibration stimulates not only the thymus gland but also the lungs, heart, and bronchial tubes. All of these play a significant role in maintaining our overall health.

This reinforcement in the body’s defence system can, in turn, give you a better coping mechanism against stress. Moreover, when paired with positive messages, also known as affirmations, it’s an even more powerful push towards calmness and serenity. 

USING AFFIRMATIONS WITH CHEST TAPPING

Reiterating positive affirmations as you tap will act like a double whammy against stress. While the words “I am calm, I am healthy, I am happy” may seem straightforward, the messages they broadcast to your subconscious are immensely powerful. They gently redirect your thought process towards positivity and wellness.

Tapping on its own is great, but when combined with these empowering affirmations, it fosters a sense of self-love and acceptance. Repeat these three times, either in your mind or out loud, for optimal benefits.

BOTTOM LINE

We live in a world that often feels like it’s in constant fast-forward, and pausing for mental care doesn’t always seem feasible. Stress, however, is not something to turn a blind eye to. It’s essential to tackle it head-on before it affects our overall well-being.

The techniques I’ve shared with you today are as simple as effective. They serve two crucial purposes. The first is to provide immediate relief during stressful episodes. Secondly, when practised regularly, they can act as preventative measures against future stress attacks.

Breathwork and thymus tapping might just take about a minute, but the peace they offer extends far beyond. So carve out these few moments for yourself and start feeling better today. 

Remember to follow me on Instagram @faceyogaexpert for more daily wellness tips and hacks.