One technique gaining recognition is Brain Tapping, which combines cognitive behavioral therapy with somatic stimulation using acupuncture pressure points. While rhythmically tapping specific areas of the face, collarbone, under the arm, and the top of the head, individuals engage in a process that merges elements from traditional Chinese Medicine and kinesiology. This method involves vocalizing distressing thoughts and assessing their intensity on a scale of 1-10. Surprisingly, scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of brain tapping exists. A review published in the journal Psychology in 2013 highlighted randomized controlled trials and personal studies, including 23 trials on Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFTs), which encompass brain tapping.

Another approach, known as the Military Technique, offers a simple yet effective method to induce sleep. By performing a specific breathing pattern — inhaling, holding, exhaling, holding, and repeating — individuals can achieve a relaxed state conducive to sleep. The US Army has reported a success rate of 96% among those who have tried this technique. The Military Technique involves progressively relaxing different muscle groups throughout the body, starting from the face and progressing downwards. While initially developed for military personnel, the technique’s efficacy suggests potential benefits for a wider range of individuals experiencing sleep difficulties.

Drawing from the wisdom of ancient Chinese Medicine, the Anmian Pressure Point focuses on applying pressure and massage to a spot located behind the ear. Acupuncture and acupressure theories propose that stimulating specific pressure points restores the flow of Qi, the vital energy within the body. Insomnia and fatigue tend to result from depleted Qi levels. Acupressure involves using fingers or a blunt object to exert pressure on specific points, including Anmian. Studies indicate that applying pressure to these points activates nerves and facilitates the transmission of impulses to vital brain centers, promoting improved sleep. Apply pressure on the area behind the ear for thirty seconds before sleeping to yield favorable results.

Reflexology, a practice often associated with relaxation and improved well-being, introduces the Yongquan and Tai Chong Pressure Points as potential aids for better sleep. Though robust scientific evidence supporting reflexology remains limited, small studies have shown promising outcomes. EEG studies during reflexology sessions revealed brain wave pattern alterations consistent with sleep induction. Reflexologists often employ additional relaxation techniques such as essential oils, aromatherapy, and dim lighting, making it challenging to isolate the precise effects of pressure on these specific points. Nevertheless, the power of the human touch and the potential benefits of stimulating these pressure points cannot be discounted.

The significance of natural light in regulating sleep patterns cannot be overstated. Studies have demonstrated that exposure to natural light upon waking improves sleep quality. Blocking out early morning light with blackout curtains has been shown to promote better sleep. However, after awakening, it is crucial to seek exposure to natural daylight. Spending at least 30 minutes outdoors or opening blinds and windows in the morning allows for beneficial light exposure that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Even if outdoor activity is not feasible, the presence of natural light within the immediate environment upon waking can have a positive impact on sleep.

Bean soups are delicious. They can be cooked slowly on the back burner for literally hours. However, if you don’t have enough free time, skip the long simmer and cook them in the pressure cooker. Bean soups have the distinct advantage of tasting delicious, either way. Ever heard of Tuscan bean soup? Here is the recipe:

What Is Tuscan Bean Soup?

Long-simmered pots of bean soup are popular throughout Italy. This one takes a few shortcuts by using canned beans, but the flavor will be very similar to soups that have simmered for hours.

Ingredients for the Soup

• 3 tablespoons of olive oil.
• 1 large coarsely chopped large onion
• 1 clove of finely chopped garlic
• 1 stalk of coarsely chopped celery
• 2 thickly sliced medium carrots
• 3 springs of fresh oregano
• Black pepper, as desired
• 2 15-ounce cans of cannellini beans, or small white beans, rinsed and drained
• 4 cups of baby kale or baby spinach, stems removed
• 5 cups vegetable or chicken stock
• 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh oregano, for garnish
• 1/4 tablespoon of salt
• Olive oil, to serve
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese, to serve

Ingredients for the Parmesan Toasts

• Olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 baguette, thinly sliced

How to Cook the Soup

Heat the olive oil in a soup pot, until warm. Add the onion, carrots, garlic, celery, fresh oregano springs, pepper, and salt, when the oil is hot. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent. Then, prepare the beans. Mash 1/2 cup of them with a fork on a plate. You can also use a potato masher. Add them to the vegetables in the pot. Cook, stirring for about 2 minutes.

Then, add the remaining beans to the pot and stir them. Add the chicken stock and bring it to a boil while stirring. Reduce the heat and cover partially with a lid-placed askew, and simmer for 20 minutes until the carrots are tender and the liquid is flavorful.

While the bean soup simmers, it’s time to prepare the Parmesan toast. Toast the bread until it’s lightly golden on both sides. While the toast is hot, sprinkle it with cheese and olive oil. If you have a toaster oven, heat the toast for 1 minute so you can melt the cheese. Otherwise, arrange the toasts in a skilled over medium heat. Then, cover and warm for about 1 minute or until the cheese has melted.

Add the greens – spinach or kale to the pot and simmer for another two minutes. Serve the bean soup by sprinkling it with more olive oil and oregano if you like. Serve the Parmesan toasts and add more Parmesan. You know what they say about cheese – you can never have too much!