The Sea of Tranquility

Here’s a quick and easy way to experience peace in moments of difficulty.

Take the index, middle, ring and pinky fingers of your left hand and put them along your sternum vertically so that your pinky is above the notch. You can move your fingers up and down a bit to find indentations and place each finger into one. There will be a little space between your fingers if they’re positioned correctly. Exert some pressure; don’t dig in, but hold your fingers firmly.

The Sea of Tranquility

As you do this, close your eyes and breathe slowly and deeply into the area of your abdomen below your navel. Your shoulders and chest should remain relatively still. If you’d like, you can imagine that you’re in a place that you find relaxing.

This acupressure point is known as the Sea of Tranquility. It’s best if you can hold this pose for at least two minutes to derive the most benefit. If you’re seeking relief from anxiety, PTSD, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, trauma, or fear, the Sea of Tranquility is an excellent point to press.

For those of you who meditate or practice yoga, you know this is where you place your thumbs when you do a prayer pose. It’s an effective way to restore calm. In fact, there’s no reason to wait for anxiety. If you use this technique daily, you may just find you feel better in general.

Frances O’Brien