What is self-soothing and how can it help me?
- When we feel emotionally distressed, overwhelmed, or removed from the present moment, self-soothing can help calm our body and restore equilibrium.
What is the difference between self-soothing and self-care?
- Self-soothe: A band-aid that can help you calm down in the moment
- Self-care: A preventative measure that can help you build resilience in the long-run
Guide to Self-soothing Using the Five Senses
- Sight: Stare at the flame of a candle, look through pictures or videos, go outside and observe your surroundings
- Hear: Listen to relaxing music, sing or play an instrument, say positive statements out loud
- Touch: Stretch your body or do yoga, play around with different textures, shock your system with ice cubes or cold water
- Taste: Eat your favorite comfort meal, eat something sour or spicy, drink something hot or cold
- Smell: Breathe in the smells of nature, smell essential oils (lavender, bergamot), use a favorite soap, shampoo, or conditioner
Sources
Degges-White, S. (2020, January 30). Self-Soothing: First Aid for Stress and Burnout. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/lifetime-connections/202001/self-soothing-first-aid-stress-and-burnout
Eddins, R. (2020, April 1). Grounding Techniques & Self Soothing for Emotional Regulation. Retrieved from https://eddinscounseling.com/grounding-techniques-self-soothing-emotional-regulation/