The next time you’re feeling stressed, whether it’s work, parenting, or the stress of everyday life, here’s one technique to try. butterfly hug. The Butterfly Hug works by alternating rhythmic pats on both sides of the chest and is thought to help the nervous system during moments of stress and anxiety, bringing a few minutes of calmness to an overwhelmed world.
What is Butterfly Hug?
Butterfly hugs were originally developed for a kind of therapy called. Eye movement desensitization retreatment, abbreviated EMDR. It is used to help people process painful or traumatic memories. Butterfly hugs work using a technique known as bilateral stimulation, which stimulates both sides of the body in alternating rhythms.other A Natural Example of Bilateral Stimulation It also includes running, where you hit the ground with your feet in an alternating rhythm. Or if you play the drums, move your hands in an alternating pattern.
Evidence for EMDR’s effectiveness is still limited, but butterfly hugs are undeniably calming. It’s also quick and easy to perform, making it essential for techniques that help during stressful moments.
how to do a butterfly hug
to do butterfly hug, wrap your thumbs together and place them on your sternum and place your hands on your chest so that your fingertips touch your collarbones. Then alternately beat your hands on your chest in a motion that mimics the flapping of a butterfly’s wings. Do this for a few minutes while taking deep breaths. Find the rhythm and intensity that works best for you.
If you find the butterfly hug difficult, you can also try tapping the outside of your knee in an alternating pattern. This is a slightly less noticeable move, but gives a similar pattern.
