Not long ago, I received a series of “tapping”* treatments in which my parasympathetic nervous system was activated to benefit my healing process. This was accomplished by tapping on my body to help rewire the nerve pathways and tap out or diminish the physical pain of my scars.
The parasympathetic nervous system is, “part of the involuntary nervous system that serves to slow the heart rate, increase intestinal and glandular activity, and relax the sphincter muscles.” according to a definition on MedicineNet. In other words, when activated, it makes you feel relaxed and safe.
I noticed between treatments, that I was looking forward to the tapping. It made my whole body feel like it was taking a sigh of relief and that I could easily slip into a deep sleep.
In fact, the tapping was such a benefit, I began doing it at other times, whenever I felt anxious or rushed. I became aware of the immediate impact on my emotions and state of mind.** I have come to the conclusion that tapping seems to release anxiety and in turn, I feel calm and focused.
I’ve only begun experimenting with this process and don’t even know if there is an actual name for it, but I wanted to share it with you because it has had such a positive effect on me.
Want to give it a try? Here we go.
1 Find a quiet place where you can do this exercise without being interrupted. Sit down and make yourself comfortable. Breathe normally. Make a note of your emotional state. Anxious? Sad? Tired?Busy mind?
2 Close your eyes. Now place your hands horizontally just below your collar bones, on either side of the center line.
3 Hover the hands just about the upper chest area and gently begin tapping 3 times with left hand and then 3 times with the right hand. Don’t rush. Repeat for a few moments. When you stop the tapping observe your breath and your body. Are there any perceivable changes? Do you feel quieter?
If you are feeling particularly anxious it may take a few rounds of tapping. Be patient, dearest friend, because releasing the anxiety/stress from your body is not only important, it is achievable.
Once you feel the shift, take a moment to sit in the calm and allow your nervous system to reset. I usually add a few positive affirmations to finish off the tapping session, as the calm or quiet begins to ripple out: “I am safe.” “I am peaceful” “I like this calm and peaceful state” Open your eyes.
And that’s it we’re done!
If you need assistance or guidance with this exercise or any others, I am here to help you with techniques such as these and others that create emotional freedom, mental clarity and uplift your spirit.
One more thing, be sure to share this post with loved ones, colleagues and friends who may be in need of real transformative tools to help them to relax, become more focused or kick start their lives in a positive direction. Let me know if this works for you and your loved ones.
Thank you until next week!
* This is not the same as EFT
** With deeper trauma-related anxiety or panic attacks the tapping may give some relief but I recommend working with a professional.