Following on from yesterdays post and the need to feel safe rather than scared.... I recently re-read a book I bought a couple of years ago: Feeling Safe: How to be strong and positive in a changing world by William Bloom, Piatkus 2006. To summarise the relevant points:

The enduring experience of safety is anchored and sustained by the chemistry of well being. To experience safety and security is to feel physical relaxation and well being. Eat well and get enough sleep and exercise to keep your nervous system strong.

Physical movement and other direct forms of physical pleasure (massage, warm bath) can bypass your psychological state and trigger your internal opiates, creating a biological well being that can directly affect your mood in a very positive and beneficial way.

Do not worry and radiate negative energy. It attracts what you do not want.

You must have a pleasurable life in order to feel safe. Connection to the good things of life brings hope and wisdom. Connect back with nature, the universe, with the good things in life. Surround yourself with things that give you pleasure – photos, postcards, images etc.

In a stressful situation, withdraw your attention from external events. This will inhibit the production of adrenalin and cortisol. Breathe softly and very deeply into yourself and allow your chest and stomach to sink. Let your body know that you are still in charge. Watch what is happening to yourself and you will immediately feel things coming back under control. Imagine a protective bubble around yourself.