How do you self-soothe?

[aug2012]

I'm starting to read about self-soothing techniques, because this is good for deep anxiety and emotional trauma. So I was wondering what YOU do to self-soothe.

[BriarRose]

Hmm... good question! I sometimes find music helps - something quiet and relaxing - classical, or nature sounds - water, birdsong, pan pipes - sometimes help. One trick I have started is - not sure how to describe it, because it's not massage as such, but I try just brushing the tips of my fingers very very lightly over my forehead - upwards, from eyebrows to hairline. just the lightest touch, no pressure at all, like a feather brushing your skin. I find it helps - sometimes - worth a try?

Sorry, can't think of anything else atm, but if I do I'll post again.

Good luck!

Rose x

[aug2012 in reply to BriarRose]

Hi Rose

I'm really glad that you mentioned the stroking touch, because I'd forgotten that I used to do something similar and it works very well to comfort and soothe - just to very lightly stroke the head, forehead, or cheek a few times - kind of like, "There, there, it'll be okay" - which may seem rather silly to a lot of people, but when you're right at the edge of going nuts due to your anxiety/panic it really does help to calm you down.

Hope you're doing well today Rose

[barbsk]

Self soothing is very much linked to compassion focused therapies, some great book on Amazon on this subject!! Like you said it is meant to be very effective for shame, emotional trauma and chronic low self esteem. I am just leaning some of these techniques for myself, a few ideas I have found helpful are creating a self place in a meditation, a place you can learn to go to when you need safety, comforting, nurturing, non-judgement, stroking your arms almost like you are hugging or holding yourself with your arms crossed, holding your hand over your heart centre....

Barbs x

[TeamDB]

I tend to bake or cook, it really takes my mind off things and distracts me from my anxiety. I distract myself with Documentary TV before I fall asleep also.