Adjustment tools
Regulation tools are strategies that help lower, stabilize, or direct emotional, physiological, and cognitive arousal.
Definition
Includes: breathing, grounding, movement, sleep, social contact, naming emotions, breaks and relaxation techniques. They are not a replacement for therapy or treatment, but they can support everyday functioning. Their effectiveness depends on the person, situation and regularity.
Key ideas
- Arousal regulation
- Selection to the situation
- Regular practice
Practice and life
Create a personal list of three tools: one for the body, one for the thoughts, one for contact with another person.
Common misconceptions
It is a mistake to look for one technique for everything. The second mistake is to use tools only when arousal reaches its maximum.
> Regulation is not about turning off emotions, but about regaining the scope of choice.
> — Guru Element
Questions for self-reflection
- What type of adjustment do I need?
- Which tool works the smoothest?
- Do I need specialist support?