CALM AND CONNECTED - EPISODE 16
Using Shapes to Take Deep Breaths
Listening to what works for my clients is always enlightening. I’ve learned so much from what clients of all ages have shared what works for them.
I first learned about this coping skill from a young client. I was teaching a small group about coping skills, and I was asking them what coping skills they’ve learned or used.
One of the tween girls who was in the group shared something that her individual therapist taught her that really worked. And she then proceeded to show us how to do a grounding technique.
Start with a big belly breath
Notice 5 things you see
Notice 4 things you feel
Notice 3 things you hear
2 things you smell (or favorite smell)
and 1 thing you taste (or your favorite)
End with a big belly breath.
Once she was done, she looked at me and said - it feels so good to do that!
Everyone wanted to give it a try. And ever since then, it’s been a coping skill I’ve introduced to my clients.
This coping skill is perfect for when children/teens are experiencing overwhelming or extreme feelings like anxiety or stress.
You can also modify this coping skill according to what your client or child responds best to.
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54321 Grounding is just one of the coping skills in the #1 Bestselling Coping Skills for Kids Workbook. Grab your copy today at copingskillsforkids.com/workbook
