Calm
Calming is the process of lowering excessive physiological and emotional arousal so that a more conscious choice of response is possible.
Definition
Calming does not mean instant happiness or turning off your emotions. It includes activities that help the nervous system recover from the alarm: slower breathing, a safe environment, a break, movement, contact with another person, grounding or rest. It works best when practiced before a crisis.
Key ideas
- Decreased arousal
- Back to selection
- Body and attention regulation
Practice and life
Create a personal calming routine: one action for the breath, one for the body, and one for the surroundings. Test it under slight tension.
Common misconceptions
It is a mistake to demand immediate peace from yourself. It is also a mistake to confuse calming down with avoiding necessary action.
> Calming down isn't about pretending nothing is happening, it's about regaining control over your response.
> — Guru Element
Questions for self-reflection
- What actually lowers my arousal?
- Do I need solitude, exercise or contact?
- What decision will I come back to after calming down?