Supporting Our Loved Ones

Resources to help you listen, respond, and stay connected when someone you love is finding things difficult.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation

This practice helps you notice where your body has been holding on to stress. By slowly tightening and releasing different muscles, you let your body soften, rest, and finally exhale.

Box Breathing

When things feel like too much, this is a simple way to slow everything down. By breathing in steady, gentle counts, you give your body a chance to calm itself and feel safer again.

Grounding

When your mind is racing, this helps bring you back to the present moment. You slowly notice what you can see, feel, hear, smell, and taste—reminding your body that you’re here, and you’re safe.

This is about offering yourself comfort through gentle, reassuring touch—such as the butterfly hug, or havening. These simple actions can help your body feel safer and allow your nervous system to slowly settle.

Self-Soothing Techniques