Using Your Hearing To Self-Sooth
By Kevin Leapley, MA, LPC, CSAT on Saturday, March 28th, 2015 in Anxiety Counseling. No Comments
Self-Soothing Recovery Tool
Sounds have a way of soothing us. This can include for example listening to calming music such as classic or faith-based music. Everyone will have his or her own favorites for relaxing. Other examples can be listening to a inspirational speaker on Ted Talks or a pastor that you enjoy hearing.
Some people feel peaceful listening to books on tape. Many libraries will allow borrowing books on tape. Just the sound of a person’s voice can be relaxing. This can accomplished in your car as you drive to work or during your lunch break. Television or the radio can also provide a comfortable background as you relax on the couch and rest. I recommend turning the volume down to a level that isn’t disruptive. I also recommend avoiding shows that are designed to cause conflict or arousal such as political talk shows or controversy.
Walking along a path allows you to hear the peaceful sounds of nature. Nothing is more relaxing to me than the sound of nature. Find your favorite place to sit (i.e., next to a water fountain or stream) and listen to the gentle sound of moving water. I relax when I go for a run. Running or exercising releases stress and provides an opportunity to breath deeply as your muscles push forward. Whatever works for you, I hope you will find time to practice hearing as a way to self-sooth.
Kevin Leapley, MA, LPC, CSAT
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