Today’s skill is self-soothing using the six senses. These are vision, hearing, scent, taste, touch, and movement, or in other words, awareness of your body in space.
You can pick and choose things to stimulate those senses, things that bring you calm.
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For vision, that might mean looking at old pictures that bring you joy. Observing nature. Looking at a beautiful piece of art that is meaningful for you.
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Now move to your hearing. Listen to soothing music. Or, listen to a guided meditation if that’s something you enjoy. Observe the ambient sounds in your environment.
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Now scent. Light a candle that you like, use a certain body wash. Go for a walk and be aware of the scent that’s in the air. Anything that brings you calm and happiness.
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Taste. Treat yourself to your favorite food. Make yourself a hot beverage, like tea or coffee. Or maybe you feel you really need the taste of chocolate right now.
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Touch: Put on your comfiest clothes, or wrap yourself in a blanket. In a moment of distress, some people might feel they are overheated. If that’s the case, consider taking a cool shower, or putting a cool washcloth on your face.
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The last sense is movement. Do some yoga, if that’s something that you enjoy. Stretch your legs. Rock back and forth in a chair, give yourself a tight bear-hug, or simply be aware of your body in space.
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This completes today’s skill for the day. Thanks for listening!
