Need An Afternoon Pick-Me-Up? If You Can’t Nap, Try This.

ACEP • October 7, 2024

If you’re groggy and want to learn how to revive, you’re in the right place. This blog teaches you an easy tool you can use right now to help you wake up.


(by Sarah Murphy, LPC)  One of the fastest and most effective ways to become awake and alert is to use the Thymus Thump, a simple body-based technique that helps you increase your life-force energy. Practice the technique right now by watching the video below and following along. You can also download written instructions in EnglishSpanish, and Portuguese.

How it Works

Simply tap on the middle of your chest, using a closed fist. It’s even better when you plaster a smile on your face while doing it. Give it a try! 


Notice how your body feels both before and after you use the technique. This technique is just one of many you can use to increase the flow of energy and feel more awake and alert.


Why It Works

By using energy psychology techniques like the Thymus Thump, you are interacting with your body’s energy system. With the Thymus Thump, you are increasing the flow of energy through your system. This allows you to feel awake and alert, quickly and easily. The technique is also helpful if you feel anxious or panicky, and will help you after a shock or trauma.


More Techniques to Feel Awake and Alert

If you found the Thymus Thump helpful, here are a few more tools you can use to increase your energy: Four Thumps and Heel Shock Release. All of the videos and techniques in our “Try This” series were created by ACEP’s Humanitarian Committee in order to help people heal by spreading the word about the powerful effects of energy psychology techniques. We invite you to help by sharing this information!


Need Help from a Professional?

Many people are seeking non-pharmacological interventions to help improve overall wellbeing. ACEP is a nonprofit, 501c3 association dedicated to the research, education, and sharing of energy psychology.  Check out the ACEP practitioner directory to find a certified ACEP therapist in your area or online.


Author:  Sarah Murphy, LPC


Sarah Murphy is a licensed professional counselor and coach with more than 12 years of clinical experience. She is Communications Committee Chair for ACEP and staff therapist for Unite for HER. She specializes in energy psychology, including EFT, as well as mindfulness and hypnotherapy. Learn more at www.transformative-therapy.com.


Photo by Adrian Swancar on Unsplash

By Mary Nathanson January 14, 2026
For centuries, herbs have been revered for their ability to restore balance in the body and mind. Today, a growing body of scientific research supports what ancient cultures have long understood — herbs possess unique energetic properties that influence physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. 
By Robert Bray, PhD, DCEP December 15, 2025
Recently, during a Basic TFT Algorithm Training, I had a profound experience helping someone work through a traumatic event that had happened more than 30 years ago.
By Lori Chortkoff Hops, PhD, DCEP August 13, 2025
“The only constant is change.” Heraclitus of Ephesus “People are very open-minded about new things, as long as they're exactly like the old ones.” Charles F. Kettering “Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” Harriet Tubman
More Posts