Sensations are the clues that our body gives us about our feelings. They can range from physical sensations, such as a racing heart or butterflies in the stomach, to mental sensations, such as a racing mind or difficulty concentrating. It is important for children to learn how to listen to these sensations and understand what they are telling us about our emotions.
One way to help children learn to listen to their sensations is to encourage them to pay attention to what is happening in their body when they feel a certain emotion. For example, when a child is feeling frustrated, they might notice that their fists are clenched or that their face feels hot. When a child is feeling anxious, they might notice that their stomach feels tight or that their breathing is shallow. By paying attention to these sensations, children can learn to recognize when they are feeling a certain emotion and can take action to give their body what it needs to regulate.
Emotions can be messy, and it is normal to feel a range of emotions all at once. For example, a child might feel sad and anxious at the same time, accompanied by sensations such as a racing heart and shallow breathing. It is important for children to learn that it is okay to feel a range of emotions and that it is normal to have sensations associated with these emotions.
There are many ways that children can give their body what it needs to regulate when they are feeling a range of emotions. Some examples include:
- Taking deep breaths: Deep breathing can help calm the body and the mind.
- Engaging in physical activity: Exercise can help release tension and improve mood.
- Seeking support from a trusted adult: Talking about emotions with a trusted adult can help children feel understood and supported.
- Engaging in activities that bring joy: Doing things that bring joy and pleasure can help improve mood and reduce stress.
By learning to listen to their sensations and take action to give their body what it needs, children can better understand and manage their emotions. Emotions are a normal and important part of life, and learning how to navigate them can help children lead healthier and happier lives.