I am in the middle of a move, and it’s reminded of two things: The nervous system hates change, and I’m so grateful to have awareness of what keeps me feeling supported during times of transition.
Anchors are the tools we use to bring ourselves back into safety, when our survival system detects threat.
Anchors are not about staying permanently Zen or executing every healing tool to perfection. Rather, they’re there to offer us some stability when life has us feeling wobbly.
Read more about the nervous system states & anchors here: katelmhc.com/blog/sticking-to-your-goals Sticking to your goals — Kate Licciardello, LMHC
Tips for using anchors:
1.) Figure out what yours are. Observe when you feel safe and well – body, mind and spirit. Who are you with, what are you doing? What are you curious to try?
2.) Make a list. Make a word document, write it on a Post-It. Remember, our brains will return to autopilot if we don’t make new ideas explicit and hard to miss.
3.) Schedule them consistently. Once you get a handle on what anchors really support you, put them on the calendar. Make them a sacred practice. Practice when you’re regulated, so they’re easier to reach for when you’re activated.
4.) Treat it like a menu, based on your nervous system state, life season or current stressors. Some days, a glass of water or shower may be an anchor. Others, a Zumba class. Attune to your life’s flow and your changing capacity.
Sample menu items to try:
Breathwork
A self-hug
Hand over heart technique
Self-compassion tools
Time in nature
Walks
Essential oils/aromatherapy
A cup of tea
A text to a supportive friend
Joining a sports team
Therapy or body work
What would you add to the list?