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Somatic Activities to Support Feeling

Stress

Finger Holds

Hold each finger of your hand with the opposite hand, applying gentle pressure.

Foot Rolling

Use a small ball, like a tennis ball, and roll it under the soles of your feet while sitting or standing.

Ocean Breath (Ujjayi)

Constrict the back of your throat slightly as you breathe, creating a soft, ocean-like sound.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation

Sequentially tense and then relax each muscle group in your body, starting from your feet and working your way up to your head.

Cat-Cow Stretch

On all fours, arch your back (cow pose) and then round it (cat pose).

Wrist Release

Gently rotate your wrists in both directions, releasing tension in the forearms and wrists.

Mudras for Stress Relaxation

Sitting cross legged on the floor or in a chair

Walking Meditation

Walk slowly and mindfully, paying attention to the sensations in your feet and the movement of your body.

Spinal Twist

Sit or lie down, and twist your torso to one side, holding the position for a few breaths.

Deep Diaphragmatic Breathing

Breathe deeply into your diaphragm, expanding your belly as you inhale.

Alternate Nostril Breathing

Close one nostril with your thumb and breathe in through the other nostril, then switch.

Vagal Nerve Stimulation

Gargle with water, hum, or engage in deep belly breathing to stimulate the vagus nerve, which helps regulate stress responses.

Self-Acupressure

Apply gentle pressure to specific acupressure points, such as the point between your eyebrows or the webbing between your thumb and index finger.

Self-Hug

Wrap your arms around yourself in a gentle hug.

Sighing

Take a deep breath in and then exhale with a long, audible sigh.

Jaw Relaxation

Gently massage the jaw muscles and open your mouth wide to release any tension stored in the jaw, which is a common area for stress to manifest.

Butterfly Hug

Cross your arms over your chest with your hands resting on your shoulders.

Tai Chi Movements

Perform slow, deliberate movements based on Tai Chi principles to promote relaxation and reduce stress.

Shoulder Rolls

Gently roll your shoulders in a circular motion, forward and backward, to release tension stored in the neck and shoulders.

Body Scan Meditation

Lie down or sit comfortably and slowly bring your awareness to each part of your body, noticing any sensations of tension or relaxation.

Somatic Shaking

Stand and gently shake your body, starting with your hands and gradually involving your entire body.

Visualization

Close your eyes and imagine a peaceful, calming place.

Hand Massages

Gently massage each of your hands, focusing on the fingers, palms, and wrists.

Humming

Humming creates vibrations that can soothe the nervous system.

Circular Breathing

Breathe in and out in a continuous loop without pausing between the inhale and exhale.

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