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Hand Squeezing

Materials Needed:

To Support Feeling:

Threatened

How to Do It

Take a soft object like a stress ball or even just your fists and squeeze it tightly for a few seconds, then release. Repeat this action several times while focusing on your breath.

Why It Works

Squeezing and releasing helps to channel the fight-or-flight energy into a physical action, which can reduce the intensity of the threat response and bring a sense of physical and emotional relief.

Guided Practice

Find a quiet place where you can sit comfortably and take a few deep breaths. Allow yourself to become aware of the gentle rise and fall of your belly as you breathe.

Now, with your hands interlaced in front of you, gently squeeze them together. Feel the tension building in your hands and forearms, the muscles engaging with each squeeze. Hold the pressure for a moment, noticing the sensations that arise—perhaps a sense of strength or a subtle warmth spreading through your hands. As you exhale, slowly release the squeeze, allowing your hands to soften. Feel the contrast between the tension and the relaxation, the flow of energy shifting within you. Repeat this motion, squeezing your hands together once more. Notice how your fingers and palms feel as they press together, the slight resistance or the firm connection. As you hold the squeeze, take a deep breath in, feeling your chest expand, your body grounded. With each exhale, release the pressure in your hands, imagining any stress or tension melting away like ice under the sun. Allow yourself to explore these sensations fully, being present with each movement. Continue this pattern, finding a rhythm that feels soothing and natural. You might notice a sense of energy building with each squeeze, a warmth spreading through your forearms, or perhaps a feeling of calm settling in. Imagine that with each squeeze, you are gathering any tension, and with each release, you are letting it go, freeing your hands and your body. Perhaps an image arises of holding onto a handful of sand and then letting it flow through your fingers, releasing any tightness or worry. Now, bring your awareness to your breath as you continue squeezing and releasing. With each inhale, gather your energy, and with each exhale, imagine sending a wave of relaxation through your body. Notice how your breath and your movements become synchronized, creating a flowing rhythm that calms your mind and relaxes your muscles. You might feel a gentle tingling or a sense of lightness spreading from your hands up into your arms and shoulders. As you continue, allow the squeezing to become softer and more gentle. Notice the subtle shifts in sensation as you lessen the pressure, how your hands and forearms feel. Allow yourself to fully relax into this lighter touch, feeling the energy flow freely without resistance. Perhaps you sense a connection between your hands and your heart, a flow of warmth or compassion extending through your entire being. As we bring this practice to a close, gently rest your hands in your lap or by your sides. Feel the lingering sensations in your hands and arms, the warmth, the relaxation, the sense of release. Take a few deep breaths, grounding yourself back into the present moment. Notice if there is a feeling of lightness or openness in your body, or maybe a different sensation altogether. When you're ready, gently open your eyes or lift your gaze, carrying with you the sense of calm and relaxation that this practice has provided.

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