The LAYERS Method™: S = Self-Soothe

We've reached the final stage of The LAYERS Method™, and perhaps the one that many of us need the most.

When people hear the phrase self-soothing, they often picture self-care rituals, lighting a candle, taking a bath or enjoying a quiet cup of tea. Whilst these moments can certainly help, true self-soothing begins much deeper than that.

It begins with the relationship we have with ourselves.

Throughout this series, we've learned to notice our thoughts and feelings without immediately reacting to them. We've acknowledged our emotions instead of pushing them away, become curious about what sits beneath them, listened to the messages our bodies are sending us and learned ways to regulate our nervous systems.

Self-soothing is where all of these skills come together.

It's the moment we stop fighting ourselves.

Instead of saying, "Why am I like this?" we gently ask, "What do I need right now?"

Instead of judging ourselves for struggling, we offer ourselves compassion.

Instead of trying to silence our emotions, we remind ourselves that they are welcome here.

Self-soothing doesn't remove pain.

It doesn't promise that life will suddenly feel easy.

What it does offer is something just as powerful.

The knowledge that whatever we're facing, we don't have to face it whilst also being at war with ourselves.

Over the coming weeks I'll begin exploring how The LAYERS Method™ can be used in everyday life, from anxiety and relationships to grief, burnout and emotional wellbeing.

This may be the final letter...

But it's only the beginning of the journey.

Thank you for following along.

Love Pamela x