Hold yourself with love
A simple, powerful practice to bring comfort when you need it most
Today I wanted to offer something simple yet powerful you can do for yourself when you are feeling painful feelings. You might be experiencing sadness, grief, shame, overwhelm - whatever it is that’s hard to hold, here is a way to hold yourself.
Hug yourself
Wrap your arms around yourself and give yourself a hug. Feel your own embrace; the gentle pressure, the support. Squeeze your arms gently with your hands. Stroke up and down your arms as you embrace your body. Take some deep, slow breaths.
I did this for myself this morning, after some painful memories visited me. As I was crying, I wrapped my arms around myself.
Knowing that I can hold myself with love in moments of pain is such a comfort, such a balm. It creates a sense of safety in my body. Even without words I am telling myself: I’m here. I love you. It’s OK.
Hand on your heart
Simply place your palm over your heart. Close your eyes, if you can. Feel the warmth and gentle pressure of your hand. Feel the love pouring into you. You could place two hands there if it feels good. Or stroke gentle circles over your chest. Notice your breathing; the rise and fall of your chest.
Soothing touch
Notice where in your body you are feeling strong sensations, and bring your hand there. Bring that part of you the love it needs.
Here are some more suggestions - explore what feels good to you:
You could stroke your arms gently.
Stroke your head, run your hands over your hair, your face, your neck.
Gently press a hand to your forehead, or over your eyes.
Place a hand on your heart and your belly, and feel the rise and fall of your breath.
Gently hold your face in your hands.
These are all embodied ways to bring yourself self-compassion.
I’d love to know what soothing touch you find supportive - please share in the comments.
Some recent posts you might have missed…
My sobriety story over on
In nature, I found my way back home
Adore these practices. Hand on my heart always… i also like to gently tap my chest and find that rubbing my hands together always grounds me too. X
Such a nice reminder about practices that are simple, powerful, and free, Ellie. When I drink coffee in the morning and when eating meals, I sit crosslegged in my chair with a blanket wrapped snuggly around my waist and over my legs. It's a small thing, but calms and comforts me.