This is a lovely, calming Emmett sequence that we often refer to as “rescue moves”. It can be done standing, seated or lying, but my preference is lying in a comfortable place on your back. While you can do it on yourself, I find it most powerful when someone does it for you.

Key is repeating the sequence in a rhythmic way, until the recipient feels calmer and more relaxed.

It’s a great, gentle help to bring relaxation when feeling anxious, distressed, or breathless.

The moves can also assist and calm when experiencing breathing or respiratory issues – I use it as part of sinus work within a Bowen Therapy treatment.

This sequence is also part of the larger lymphatic drainage treatments that I offer.

Support the person’s (or your) back – either lying down, supported by the floor or bed, or by placing a hand on the person’s back if standing or seated.

The first moves are an downward/outward switch with the thumbs, just under the rib cage and following the rib line, about 4 finger widths from the midline.

The second moves are on the chest. Use 3 spread fingers if using one hand, or index and middle fingers of both hands. Place the fingers just out from the breastbone, and make a pushing switch motion outwards on each side.

The third moves are at the throat, at the level of the Adam’s apple. Using the thumb, make a gentle outward switch on each side.

Finally, place the middle finger on the top of the head and the thumb of the same hand between the eyebrows. Draw the thumb lightly over the forehead, before joining the fingers and moving the hand away above the head.

Repeat this sequence, in a rhythmic way, until feeling calmer.