The following is a somatic exercise to learn increase trust in yourself:
1. Sit or lie down so that you are comfortable and in a safe place.
2. Now, how can you make it even more comfortable? Get a blanket, a pillow... whatever will make you feel relaxed and content.
3. Once you are settled, ask yourself: "How do I know this is comfortable?" This might appear to be a silly question, and perhaps even confusing. However, it is an important one in increasing your skills of building trust.
4. Continue to explore what sensation you feel that you recognize as comfort. For example, you might think, "I do not feel any pain," "I breath easily," or "I feel relaxed."
5. You might be anticipating that this feeling won't last, which is true. We can't control or grasp on to this pleasurable feeling. It's only important that you are in the present moment right now, not drifting into thoughts of the future or the past. Thinking of the future can create anxiety; thinking of the past can create depression.
6. Remain aware of any sounds, the temperature, the light, and your physical sensations. Can you let yourself simply enjoy the moment?
You can practice this exercise for as long as you prefer and as time allows you. Just keep checking in with your level of comfort. What feelings indicate that you are comfortable? With time, you may start to trust your feelings again.
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