Anchors for Soothing
Next, establish a paired association between an anchor and your Resource Team. An anchor could be a scent, music, jewelry, an
object, a drawing, item of clothing, body sensation, or anything else you choose. Take as long as you need to pair one or more
of these anchors to your Resource Team so well, that connecting with the anchor later will bring the team front and center quickly
and effortlessly – no matter what mood you’re in. The scented anchor may be best, as it may bypass psychological defenses
better than the other anchors.
To pair them, enjoy the good feeling of the Resource Team while you’re either…
- Smelling something (e.g. cologne, lip balm, a spice, an essential oil, etc.) MAY BE THE BEST ANCHOR!
- Listening to a special piece of music (ideally, easily accessed via smartphone)
- Looking at a piece of jewelry (e.g. a ring, watch, or bracelet)
- Holding a pocket-size object (e.g. a smooth stone or charm)
- Looking at a favorite picture (ideally, easily accessed smartphone)
- Looking at a drawing you’ve made of the Resource Team (ideally, easily accessed via smartphone)
- Looking at and touching an item of clothing (e.g. a comforting shirt or sweater)
- Pressing on a knuckle
- Squeezing gently on an earlobe
Test it later, when you’re not in the enjoying this good feeling. Use your anchor to see if your Resource Team comes front and
center again – bringing this good feeling back. If it doesn’t, try again later to connect the anchor to your Team. Start by
reconnecting with your Resources. When you have the good feeling again, strengthen the paired association with your anchor
and the Team. Gently tapping on your shoulders or knees, in an alternating fashion, may help to strengthen the pairing.