06-07-2025
Can this hand skating method help relieve anxiety?
Anxiety is a pain to deal with, especially if you're someone who experiences anxiety attacks, often because they can last for hours. According to the internet, this viral hand skating method could help relieve your anxiety within seconds!
Hand skating involves using the hand to trace imaginary patterns with mindful movement. It is a technique that has roots in the principles of bilateral stimulation.
'It does not have enough scientific evidence proving it to be a helpful method to reduce anxiety. However, when we talk about mindfulness, studies have shown it helps with both chronic and acute anxiety,' said Juhi Pandey, Psychologist at Mpower.
The hand skating method helps to engage both hemispheres of the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
It also effectively grounds you to the present moment and helps trigger the parasympathetic nervous system, bringing you into a rest state.
Since hand skating involves being mindful of the hand movements and imaginary patterns it can help the person rise above the turmoil of anxious thoughts and be focused on the exercises, thus breaking the pattern of anxiety.
Studies have shown that performing physical exercises or movements can help with management of anxiety. Juhi explains how:
-Any movement or physical form of exercise can help in diverting the mind from the topic the person is anxious about.
-Physical exercises help in bringing the heart rate up. It results in production of anti-anxiety neurochemicals such as BDNF (Brain derived neuro factor), serotonin.
-Exercise also helps in reducing the muscle tension and increase blood flow to brain, which naturally helps in elevating the mood.
Apart from physical exercises, anxiety can also be alleviated with improved sleep. Sleep is one of the most underrated factors, when it comes to mental health.
