A yoga tool is a 1-3 minute practice you can use at home that helps bring you into balance. The yoga tool du jour is touch.
You know that children thrive from healthy touch, and that it is a tool to communicate affection to others. But did you know that it is just as beneficial to use touch as a tool to communicate lovingkindness to your own body, mind, and spirit?
Touch increases levels of dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin – neurotransmitters that keep the nervous system regulated and resilient. Touch has also been shown to boost immunity and positively impact heart health via reducing blood pressure.
In yoga philosophy, where attention goes, prana flows. We use touch as a tool for awareness, presence, and self-compassion, among other things. Click here to read an article about the science of touch.
Here is a practice for you to try: Find a comfortable sitting or lying position. Notice the support underneath you. Notice the movement of breath in your body. The eyes can stay open or you may close them if it’s comfortable. Take one hand and place it on your belly and place the other hand on your heart. Feel the palms receiving the breath. Notice the warmth of your hands against your body. Perhaps you can sense your heartbeat. What else do you notice? What is it like to offer this loving gesture to yourself? Stay for 1-2 minutes, and then release your hands. Take a few breaths before you continue with your day.
I really enjoyed hearing about your experiences with humming. Please feel free to reach out and let me know what came up for you when you tried this practice!