Rub arms gently
This helps reduce cortisol levels and supports mood recovery.
What You'll Do
Gently rub your arms for 30 seconds after feeling stressed.
Scientific Basis
Gently rubbing your arms or shoulders for ~30 seconds after stress reduces cortisol reactivity by ~13% and supports mood recovery via tactile comfort.
Dreisörner, A., et al. (2021). Self-soothing touch and being hugged reduce cortisol responses to stress…The Science of Impact
Self-touch techniques provide a simple, accessible method to manage stress, potentially improving overall mental health.
Reducing cortisol levels can lower the risk of stress-related health issues, such as hypertension and anxiety disorders.
Incorporating self-touch into daily routines may enhance emotional resilience and recovery from stressful events.
Pro Tips
Practice gentle arm rubbing for 30 seconds after stressful situations.
Incorporate self-touch techniques into your daily routine, aiming for at least once a day.
Combine self-touch with deep breathing exercises for enhanced relaxation.