Have you ever considered how you comfort yourself when life gets overwhelming? In psychology, we often refer to this as self-soothing behaviors, actions we instinctively begin developing in early childhood. Think about it—when a baby cries, they’re often engaging in their first form of self-soothing. As we grow, these methods evolve, but the underlying need remains the same: to regulate our emotions.
So, what exactly is self-soothing?
In essence, it’s any behavior that helps us manage and stabilize our emotional state. It’s a tool we all possess, whether we recognize it or not.
For children, self-soothing may look like thumb-sucking, rocking, or clinging to a comforting object.
For adults, it takes on more complexity, involving practices such as:
• Deep breathing exercises
• Physical movement (stretching, walking, or gentle yoga)
• Visualization techniques
• Engaging the senses—taste, touch, smell, hearing, and sight—through grounding exercises
• Creative outlets like writing, painting, or even organizing and cleaning spaces.
These practices are particularly effective in managing anxiety, combating overthinking, and helping us feel more centered in our day-to-day lives.
Another powerful form of self-soothing is reading, which offers an escape into another reality and allows our minds to rest and reset.
Our environment also plays a significant role in how well we relax. The spaces we inhabit can either contribute to our sense of calm or heighten our stress. Small, thoughtful changes can create a more comforting atmosphere.
Personally, I find these methods incredibly helpful:
• A simple walk outdoors to breathe in fresh air.
• Lighting candles or burning incense to engage my senses.
• Reducing harsh, artificial lighting—right now, I’m captivated by the soft glow of Turkish lamp mosaics.
• Practicing red light therapy for a warm, calming ambiance.
Ultimately, making time for what soothes and rejuvenates us is essential for our overall well-being. These practices are not just about comfort; they enrich our quality of life by fostering balance and emotional resilience.
