Coming Back to Yourself

• Let something be unfinished — perhaps the dishes can wait
• Pause for a few minutes — with a drink, on the sofa, or in silence
• Choose what feels easiest — even if it isn’t what you think you ‘should’ choose
• Step outside for a little fresh air — even for just a moment
• You might choose to do a little less — not everything has to be done today

Rest might be small, and coming back to yourself could begin there.

• What is my energy like right now? drained, restless, steady, somewhere in between
• What am I noticing in my body? tension, heaviness, a racing heart, a knot in my stomach, nothing at all
• Have I eaten, had a drink, or had a moment to pause?
• What feels hardest at the moment?
• Is there something I can leave until later?
• What would feel kind or supportive right now?

You don’t have to have it all figured out to listen to yourself.

Feeling tense, restless or unsettled?

• Feeling supported by what’s beneath you — your feet on the floor or your body against the chair
• A familiar object may feel comforting — a mug, blanket or smooth stone
• Something around you might catch your eye — a colour, shape or small detail
• A warm or cold drink could offer a pause — the temperature, taste, or feeling of holding it
• Familiar or repetitive actions can feel steadying — humming, tapping, counting, or repeating something
• A small change around you could feel helpful — softer lighting, fewer notifications, or a quieter space

Notice what feels most comfortable or supportive for you.

• What feels hardest today?
• What feels like too much?
• Is there anything I could leave until later?
• What kind of space would feel helpful right now?
• Is there something I’ve been wishing I could say?
• What might make today feel a little easier?

You don’t have to find the perfect answer. Sometimes noticing what you need is enough.