Calming Down with Deep Pressure

Sometimes it's good to be excited, like at a birthday party. Sometimes it's good to calm down and feel peaceful. When you are feeling too excited or nervous, you can calm down using deep pressure. Deep pressure just means pressing your hands on your arms or legs. This activity will show you how.

Your Turn Try deep pressure.

1. Sit straight in your chair, with your back pressed against the back of the chair and your feet pressed flat on the floor.
2. Take a deep breath.
3. Place your left hand on your right arm above the elbow.
4. Place your right hand on your left arm above the elbow.
5. Gently but firmly press your hands against your arm muscles.
6. Hold the pressure while you slowly count to five: 1-2-3-4-5.
7. Release the pressure.
8. Take a deep breath.
9. Notice how you feel. If you still need to calm down, try the process again, this time pressing on your legs above your knees.