The most helpful method I have found is best described by Alan Gordon as Somatic Tracking and Cognitive Soothing (both of which are explained in his program on this site). I discovered it by accident when doing Yin Yoga and was incredibly gratified some months later when Alan put a name to the experience. As you are familiar with Claire Weekes you'll see it is a variant on her brilliant advice on dealing with panic and anxiety.
This form of self-soothing is powerful because over time it breaks the circuit, calming the mind and allowing the body to relax and rest. With patience it becomes a mindful form of body scan replacing the ever-vigilant TMS tendency to hide from what we feel.
It works with anger, as well as pain, and helps you nurture more self-compassion.
My favourite soothing phrases are simple.
I am safe.
Breathe.
I am loved.
It's ok.
I'm ok.
I also like the sound of the breeze playing with trees. I find that gifts me with much peace and groundedness.
Plum x
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Alan has completed the new Pain Recovery Program. To read or share it, use this updated link: https://www.tmswiki.org/forum/painrecovery/Dismiss Notice
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Our TMS drop-in chat is tomorrow (Saturday) from 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM Eastern (US Daylight Time). It's a great way to get quick and interactive peer support, with Steve2 as your host. Look for the red Chat flag on top of the menu bar!
