Give Yourself a Hug
You know those warm fuzzies you feel when you get a hug from a pal? You actually trigger that same release of oxytocin and reduction of cortisol in yourself via touch. Expert in the field of self-compassion Kristin Neff says squeezing, stroking, or rocking your body when you’re nervous can effectively tap into feel-good sensations—excellent for when your self-confidence is faltering before a presentation.