In a thunderstorm, you might take shelter from the pelting rain, blowing winds, and deadly lightning strikes.
Taking shelter when you’re stressed, challenged, or upset can help you feel calm and confident that you can safely ride out emotional storms, too.
A refuge from stress can be anything that provides a feeling of safety and comfort: talking with a special friend, massaging your hands with lotion, or wrapping yourself in a soft, warm blanket.
To create a shelter from stress, write at least six things that are soothing, relaxing, or supportive.
Now, every day, close your eyes for a few minutes, take a few calming breaths, and softly say to yourself, I take shelter in (for example, my special friendships, or the feel of lotion on my hands, or the warmth of my soft blanket).
Try this whenever you have a free moment: on the bus to school, just before you fall asleep, or when cuddling with your pet.
