Mental Stress and Jin Shin Jyutsu
Stress is a common part of modern life, but when it builds up it can turn into mental stress that affects our mood, sleep, and even our physical health. The good news is that there is a gentle yet powerful way to ease this tension using Jin Shin Jyutsu – a universal art of harmonising our life energy by placing the hands on specific energy locations.
How can mental stress show up?
Of course, mental stress doesn’t just stay in the mind. It can affect the whole body. Common symptoms include:
- Emotional and mental signs: racing thoughts, worry, irritability, difficulty concentrating.
- Behavioural signs: poor sleep, low motivation, or relying on caffeine, sugar, or alcohol to cope.
- Physical signs: tight shoulders, headaches, digestive discomfort, or fatigue.
Left unchecked, these symptoms can build on each other, leaving us feeling stuck and exhausted. This is where Jin Shin Jyutsu can help.
Watch the video: Ease mental stress with Jin Shin Jyutsu quick hold
Our unique system of Safety Energy Locks (SELs)
In Jin Shin Jyutsu, the body’s energy system is mapped out through what are called Safety Energy Locks (often shortened to SELs). These are not specific acupuncture points but rather larger ‘energy sites’ located appropriately throughout the body. There are 26 Safety Energy Locks on each side of the body, mirroring each other from left to right.
Each SEL has its own meaning and function, and they are placed in precise locations that correspond to different aspects of our physical, mental/emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Because they are relatively large, we don’t have to be exact when placing our hands on them – simply resting your fingers or palms in the right area is enough to ‘recharge’ them.
The beauty of Jin Shin Jyutsu is its simplicity: anyone can practice it. All you need is your hands, and to know where to place them, to begin experiencing the benefits. By learning how to work with even a single Safety Energy Lock, you can start to feel a change in your stress levels and overall energy.
Safety Energy Lock 22: The stress-relief hub
One of the most powerful SELs for easing mental stress is Safety Energy Lock 22. This energy site is located at the base of the collarbone – just slide your fingers down from your collarbones, and you’ll be in the right place.
Why is SEL 22 so important? Because it is a gathering place for energy. In Jin Shin Jyutsu, it’s said that 144,000 functions of energy flow through the left and right 22s, distributing vitality to the rest of the body. When it is open and free, energy moves smoothly and we feel balanced. When it’s tense or blocked, however, stress – mental, emotional, digestive, and physical – can quickly build up.
How to work with SEL 22
Working with Safety Energy Lock 22 is easy:
- Find your collarbones, then slide down
- You can place your left hand on the left side and your right hand on the right, or you can cross your arms if that feels more comfortable.
- Relax the hands and hold. No pressure is required.
- Close your eyes
- Hold for a few minutes, or until you feel a sense of ease, warmth, or release. Even a couple of minutes can make a difference.
You may notice that the area feels tight or tender when you begin. This is a sign that SEL 22 could use some attention. With regular practice, this tension will often soften, and you may feel lighter and calmer afterwards.
Adapting to Change with SEL 22
Harmonising SEL 22 also helps us in another fabulous way: it helps us adapt to change. Whether it’s moving to a new home, navigating a relationship, or starting a new job, for instance, transitions often trigger stress. So it’s just wonderful that SEL 22 helps us ‘be happy and content wherever we are’ allowing us to meet life’s ups and downs with greater ease.
Bringing Jin Shin Jyutsu into Your Life
Practicing with Safety Energy Lock 22 is just one doorway into the rich world of Jin Shin Jyutsu. Each of the 26 SELs offers unique benefits, and there are countless flows (sequences of holds) that can support everything from physical vitality to emotional balance.
You don’t have to practice alone, either. Group sessions are a wonderful way to deepen your experience. Practicing together amplifies the energy, creates a sense of connection, and helps you stay consistent in caring for yourself. If you’d like more information about practicing Jin Shin Jyutsu regularly, please visit: Weekly Group Practice