Holidays can be stressful for anyone. When you’re living with complex trauma, they may bring pressures, triggers or isolation. Here are some practical ideas for staying safe and calm through this season.
Grounding toolkit
Blue Knot’s video archive has lots of resources worth revisiting this summer:
– Write it down –
Journal prompt:
Describe a moment of beauty or calm you experienced today
Poetry prompt:
I noticed sunlight dancing on the water…
Social media
It helps us learn and connect but it can also feel overwhelming. Check in with yourself, ask:
- “How is this making me feel?”
- “Is it helping or hindering my wellbeing?”
Get creative with trauma-informed art
Art can be a wonderful tool for healing; here are some ideas for art and crafts:
- Try bilateral drawing or mandala drawing
- Play with clay
- Discover the benefits of mindful colouring
- Create a collage
- View the world through a healing lens
- Unwind with therapeutic knitting.
To get the most out of trauma-informed art focus on the creative process, not the result.
Plan your summer playlist
- Music
- Podcasts
- Audio books
- Nature soundtracks.
Check out these relaxing music ideas for inspiration.
– Glimmers –
Here’s how to find small moments of safety, joy or calm in your day:
- Engage your senses
- Create micro-moments of calm
- Connect with safe people
- Capture beautiful moments
Read more about glimmers.
You are not alone.
Help is here. The Blue Knot Helpline is open every day over the holidays from 9:00am – 5:00pm (AEDT).
