When to use this technique
You can try it when you feel mentally tense and unable to relax, or when your mind won't stop racing before bedtime. For example:
• After continuous work or study, feeling tightness in the temples
• Lying in bed at night, still thinking about the events of the day
• After emotional excitement, needing to calm down
• Just wanting a little quiet and relaxation
Specific steps to perform
1. Find a comfortable position: sitting or lying down is fine, gently close your eyes.
2. Wash your hands, and use the fingertips of your index and middle fingers to gently place them on both temples. The location is the depression at the outer side of the eyebrows and the extension line of the corners of the eyes.
3. Apply gentle pressure and start slowly making small circles. First, rub 20 circles clockwise, then 20 circles counterclockwise. The pressure must be light, like caressing a baby, just feeling comfortable.
4. Combine with deep breathing: while massaging, inhale slowly through your nose, counting 4 seconds; then exhale slowly through your mouth, counting 6 seconds. Let your breathing and the rhythm of the massage synchronize.
5. Repeat 2-3 rounds, or until you feel your head relaxed and your mood calmed down. The whole process takes about 5 minutes.
Improvements after persistence
After doing this, you will feel your previously tense scalp and shoulders gradually relax. The blood circulation around the temples improves, and the tension and pressure feel as if they are being rubbed away. Combined with deep breathing, it can also stabilize your heart rate and calm your mood. Doing this once before bedtime every day can help you fall asleep faster. From a traditional Chinese medicine perspective, gently pressing the temples can regulate the flow of qi and blood, soothe the body and mind, and align with the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, achieving a balanced state of relaxation through yin-yang harmony.
Summary
Gently pressing the temples is truly a gentle stress-relieving habit. It doesn't cost money, nor does it take much time, yet it allows you to find a moment of peace amidst a busy life. The next time you feel stressed, why not give yourself 5 minutes and try this simple method? Remember, taking care of your physical and mental well-being starts with such small things.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. If you have persistent headaches, dizziness, or other health issues, please consult a professional doctor. If you feel discomfort during the massage, stop immediately.