In today's episode, I share tools that may help with self-regulation and creating a sense of grounding and calm. These tools may help us become more present and return to our body. When our nervous system is activated and we are headed towards fight-flight-freeze-collapse, it becomes instinct to react rather than respond. By building self-awareness about how you're feeling (such as though a 10-point scale) and intervening with some tools (earlier is better), you can increase your ability to respond. These tools may be helpful in moments where you are feeling a sense of panic, anxiety, overwhelm, rumination, trauma response, anger or difficulty relaxing/sleeping. Several tools are discussed, including breath, grounding, movement, the "voo" breath, physical touch, orienting, and speaking our experience out loud. A reminder to practice these tools often so that they can become more friendly and familiar options when you are experiencing an intense state. 

I would love to hear what tools have been helpful for you in dealing with intense moments of emotion and sensation. 

I will be creating separate podcast episodes soon with some of these tools offered as guided exercises. That way, you can have in-the-moment support at your fingertips. 

To share suggestions, thoughts, feedback, etc, visit my website to find out how to contact me: www.kellseycalhoon.com. 

Theme music is by my dear friend, Dustin Ritter of the Dustin Ritter Band. The song is called Empty Space. Check him out!