Do you self soothe?
Do you understand what self soothing is?
Self soothing is validating that it is ok to feel what you are feeling.
When we are feeling those dreaded feelings of sadness, fear, anxiety, we may think to ourselves
'Pull yourself together!'
'Paint that smile on!'
'What is wrong with you, sort yourself out!'
Ask yourself,
If your friend said they were feeling sad would you say any of the above to them?
The typical answer is no, so why say it to yourself?
The answer is simple it is easier to feel empathy, and to show compassion and kindness towards others then it is to feel it or show it to ourselves.
Self soothing is showing yourself that it is ok to feel this emotion. It is ok to show compassion and kindness to yourself. It is allowing yourself to feel empathy for what you are feeling because it is real. How you are feeling is important, because you are important.
So what can you do?
Think about you!
Ask yourself,
What do I enjoy doing? What helps me to relax? What are my favourite foods? Films? Music?
Why not try......
Grabbing your favourite blanket or putting on your PJ's and watch your favourite film.
Putting your go to programme on with a face mask.
Having a relaxing candle lit bath.
Using essential oils in your oil diffuser and sit back and relax.
Playing your favourite music with a snack that you love.
Self soothing is giving yourself the space to ride the emotion, so why not give it a try?
Show yourself some empathy, compassion and kindness.