Ice Pack on the Face

Placing an ice pack on your forehead or cheeks activates a mammalian reflex that slows our heart rate and conserves oxygen. It also stimulates the vagus nerve to instantly calm our nervous system.

1 Remove an ice pack from your freezer. If you don't have an ice pack, a bag of frozen vegetables will work too.

2 If wanted, protect your skin by wrapping it with a cloth.

3 Place the wrapped ice pack gently on your forehead or cheeks. Or hold the ice directly in your palms.

3 Take slow, deep breaths for one to three minutes, focusing on the cold sensation on your skin. Pay attention to the subtle shift in your nervous system.