There are many ways to cope with an array of emotions we go through on
a daily basis. Exercising, hanging out with friends, listening to music,
even relaxing in the sun this summer can help you cope.
During the summer months we are traveling and spending more time outdoors,
which is wonderful, but can come with an overstimulated amount of emotions
when we cram too much in one day. A great technique we can use on the
go is an ancient Japanese hand technique that can take as little as five
minutes to complete.
Each of the fingers in our hand represents a different kind of emotion
or feeling:
- The Thumb helps fend off emotions like worry and anxiety.
- The Index finger helps you fight your fears.
- The Middle finger helps control feelings of rage and bitterness.
- The Ring finger aids in fighting melancholy and depression.
- The Pinky helps relieve stress and boosts your optimism and self-esteem.
How to Perform The Technique on Yourself
- Start by taking one finger at a time, grasping it with the opposite hand
and wrapping every finger around it.
- Hold each finger for one to two minutes. Wait until you feel the pulse.
This is when you know it’s working.
- To aid in relaxation, apply slight pressure to the center of your palm
with your opposite thumb and hold for at least one minute.
- Practicing this technique each day can help balance your core self and
can help you to deal with daily stress effectively.
To find out more about this technique research Ancient Japanese Hand Technique on
YouTube or Google.
Anne K. Carlsen is a Provisional Clinical Social Worker (PCSW) in the Campbell County
Medical Group
Kid Clinic. The Kid Clinic is a school-based pediatric clinic offering medical care
for Campbell County students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade and
their siblings’ ages 2 weeks and up; and counseling services for
children 4 years to 21 years. It is located at 800 Butler Spaeth Rd.,
across from St. Matthew’s Catholic Church. The Kid Clinic is open
Monday-Friday from 8 am-5 pm. For more information, call 307-688-8700 or visit
www.cchwyo.org/kidclinic. The Kid Clinic is a collaborative effort between Campbell County Health and
Campbell County School District.