Touch,  is a strong form of communication between people, but even simple forms of touch like the clothes you wear or a soft blanket you wrap yourself in can bring a great sense of comfort and relaxation.^[1]

Here are a few suggestions on how to relax yourself using the sense of touch.

• Massages are one of my favorite stress-relievers, preferably from someone else, but if you can’t enlist others, giving yourself a hand or neck massage is a good alternative. Moving around and doing a little yoga or stretching can also be a big help. Pet therapy is a great relaxer, and your dog or cat will get as much enjoyment out of it as you do.^[2]

• Hug a soft pillow.
• Hold something fluffy.
• Feel play-doh or clay.
• Squeeze a stress ball.
• Pat an animal ^[3]
• The sensation of touch is often overlooked, but a powerful way to unwind. Notice the pressure of your back on the bed or chair, or your feet touching the floor. Rub a piece of your clothing and notice the textures. Is it smooth or rough? Warm or cool? Touch something else and pay attention to the differences or similarities. ^[4]

•  If you tend to shut down when you’re under stress, stress-relieving activities that get you moving may be particularly helpful. Anything that engages the muscles or gets you up and active can work. Here are a few suggestions:^[5]

  • Run in place or jump up and down.

  • Dance around.

  • Stretch or roll your head in circles.

  • Go for a short walk.

  • Squeeze a rubbery stress ball.

• Exercise practices like pilates, yoga, Thai-chi, stretching, dance, sports, or any kind of movement are helpful in increasing endorphins.
• Wear fuzzy socks or a cozy scarf and sweater set.
• Heating pads or cooling packs.
• Bio-tens units.
• Try creating art with modeling clay or finger paint.
• Feel more grounded by running your hands through sand or digging in the dirt. Touch the bark of a tree, pet a dog or cat, or give someone a hug.
• Hugging releases oxytocin, a chemical that makes us feel good and builds stronger connections among people. Hugging, and touch, in general, lowers blood pressure, decreases the stress hormone cortisol. (Virtual hugs help as well)
• From a handshake, hug, pat on the back, or a massage, touch is a powerful way to promote your overall health.
• Deep pressure touch can be grounding and calming. Weighted blankets may decrease anxiety and arousal levels. If you are feeling starved for time to relax and can’t fit in a massage, try sleeping under a heavy quilt. Or try placing that heavy blanket on your legs while typing on your laptop, reading, talking with friends, etc.^[6]
• A relaxing facial can also be a way to relieve stress or simply lingering in the warm water when you wash your hands.