Take care of yourself with your hands.
GESTURES THAT IMPROVE BRAIN HEALTH
Neurologists have long demonstrated that the hands are one of the body parts that have the greatest impact on brain activity and cognitive functions.
Numerous studies confirm the brain’s response to what are considered “iconic gestures” that convey precise messages equivalent to words or images. These iconic gestures are performed with the hands and constitute genuine processes. Neurocognitive studies have already corroborated the influence of certain hand gestures on the brain’s response.
Iconic gestures such as covering the face with the palms of the hands, bringing the hands to the head, or consciously opening and closing the fists with full attention to the gesture can help one relax, concentrate, or reduce anxiety.
The experience of massage therapists at HAMMAM AL ÁNDALUS It is concentrated primarily in the hands; every gesture, every touch, every brush conveys a sensation and also sends a message to the brain.
AN ICONIC GESTURE TO CALM THE MIND AND REDUCE STRESS
It is a simple gesture of inhaling a scent from the palms of your hands. This aromatherapy technique is often used as a transformative way to relax, since the sense of smell has a direct connection to the brain’s limbic system, which governs emotions, memory, and motivation.
The effects of inhaling the scent from the palms of your hands are much more potent than other types of inhalation, such as from a scented candle or a stick of incense.
The hands are an extension of the heart, which is why inhaling the scent from your own palms is an act of conscious, meditative self-care.
HOW TO DO IT
1. Depending on your mood, select one of the 7 scents from EL JARDÍN DE LAS EMOCIONES In this way, the stimulation of the sense of smell will be even more powerful, since depending on the scent chosen, the brain will evoke a specific emotion or sensation.
2. Place a few drops of oil or scented mist in the palms of your hands; since these products are alcohol-free, you can inhale them directly without causing irritation.
3. Rub your palms together very gently and bring them to your face while inhaling deeply through your nose, holding your breath for two seconds, and exhaling as you gently remove your palms from your face.
4. This iconic gesture, which also evokes a sense of safety and protection, can be performed as many times as you like; ideally, repeat it slowly about five times. The result is an intense sense of calm, but it can also bring to mind pleasant memories that may have been buried deep in your memory.
