My Simple Pandemic Self-Care Discovery That’s Still Saving My Sanity as a Mum

Do you ever catch yourself rubbing your eyes after a long day at the computer or after yet another nap-time tantrum? You know that weirdly satisfying feeling of relief? That’s a bit like the palming technique, only less aggressive and way more intentional.

Back when I was teaching online during the pandemic (yes, those glory days), I stumbled upon this little gem of a relaxation trick. It saved me from completely losing my marbles after gruelling Zoom lessons or while trying to mark papers on the screen. Fast forward to now, and I’m rediscovering its magic as a toddler mum. Turns out, it’s not just for office work – it’s a brilliant way to find a moment of calm in the chaos of parenting.

So, let me share the palming relaxation technique I use with you: what it is, how to do it, and why it’s worth adding to your mum self-care routine or toolkit, whether you’re stuck at a desk or drowning in toddler tears.

What on Earth is Palming?

In short, palming involves covering your eyes with your warm palms, creating a mini cocoon of darkness and peace. It is one of the few effective ideas taken from something called the Bates Method for eye relaxation, which turned out to be a fairly ineffective and dangerous way of trying to improving eyesight (fascinating, but not why we’re here). What matters is that it’s helpful for reducing eye strain, relaxing the muscles, and resetting your frazzled mind – no yoga mat or scented candles required!

Why You’ll Love It

Let me break it down for you:

1. Instant Eye Relief
   Been staring at a screen all day? Tired eyes from night feeds? Palming works like a little hug for your tired peepers. Rub your hands together, close your eyes, and let the darkness do its thing. The relief is instant.
2. Muscle Relaxation
   It relaxes the six muscles around each eye – because, yes, even your eye muscles get stressed! It’s like a spa day for your face, but quicker and free.
3. Tear Production Bonus
   Sounds odd, but it helps keep your eyes naturally lubricated. Perfect for those dry, scratchy winter days when central heating turns your house and your poor dry eyes into a desert.
4. Mind-Body Reset
   This one’s the jackpot for parents. Palming isn’t just about your eyes – it gives your whole system a breather. Think of it as a quick pause to recalibrate when the day starts spiralling.

I used to save palming for when my eyes had been attacked by hideous student PowerPoint presentations, and staring at black boxes with names in on Zoom. Now? It’s my go-to when the day feels overwhelming. Think toddler tantrums, nap-time rebellion, spilt milk (literally), and the sound of Peppa Pig on a loop. Just 30 seconds of palming can help me reset and keep going.

How to Do It

1. Find a quiet spot (even if it’s the bathroom – no judgement).
2. Rub the palms of your hands together to warm them up. Usually 10-15 seconds is enough.
3. Cup your palms over your closed eyes, no pressure, just a snug fit.
4. Breathe deeply, focus on the warmth, and enjoy the dark. Start with 30 seconds if you’re in a pinch or go for 5 minutes if you can wrangle a longer break.
5. That’s it! You’re officially palming. (See – No fancy equipment needed!)

Bonus: Stack It With Other Relaxation Tricks

Got a whole five minutes to yourself? (Rare, I know.) Add these for extra chill:

• Deep Breathing: For example, I inhale for 8, hold for four, exhale for 10 counts. Here are other ideas from Calm.
• Shoulder Rolls: Loosen up those tech-neck knots while you’re at it.
• Visualisation: Imagine yourself on a sunny beach – minus the sand in awkward places.

Final Thoughts

Whether I’m sitting at my desk, running between lessons, or enduring Little bean’s endless variations of “Mummy” (seriously, like she’s auditioning for I Am Groot), palming is a simple but effective way to pause and regroup. It’s quick, easy, and something I can do anywhere (well, maybe not while driving).

Give it a go and let me know if it helps. And if it doesn’t? At least you’ve enjoyed a few minutes of peace!