Self-soothing behaviour is something that people engage in either consciously or unconsciously in order to calm themselves down. Sometimes when not much thought is given into this people may resort to overeating junk food, excessively shop or increase their alcohol intake as a way to self soothe. This can have negative effects in the long run.
Learning the right strategies to self soothe may help regulate your emotions under stress and anxiety.
Using your 5 senses to self soothe…
- Going for a swim or having a warm bath or shower can be good way to regulate yourself.
- Using air freshener or scented candles.
- Having warm soup or regular sips of flavoured tea can be helpful.
- Watching the sunset, spending time to watch nature or the waves on the beach.
- Listening to your favourite music.
- Watching comedy movies to have a good laugh
- Socializing and sharing.
- Our culture views crying as a weakness and sometimes even discourages it. However, crying can be a form of self-soothing that helps to calm you.
USING IMAGERY TO SELF SOOTHE:
Take a small break from your usual routine for 10 minutes. Sit in a quiet and comfortable spot. Close your eyes and imagine your favourite holiday spot., say for example relaxing in a beach in the sun.
What can you see?
What can you hear?
Can you feel anything? The wind?
What can you smell?
Can you taste anything? Your favourite cup of tea?
