Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is as a highly effective approach for healing from past traumas, anxieties, and various psychological distresses.

The importance of self-care in EMDR therapy cannot be overstated. While EMDR therapy can be immensely beneficial, it can also evoke intense emotions and memories as individuals confront past traumas. Self-care serves as a crucial foundation for navigating the emotional terrain of EMDR, facilitating healing, resilience, and overall well-being. Here are just some ideas of how you can care for yourself while doing EMDR:

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Taking care of your physical health can help to support your emotional well-being. Ensure you’re eating nutritious meals, engaging in regular exercise, and staying hydrated. Avoid excessive use of substances such as alcohol or drugs.

Get Restful Sleep

After an EMDR session, your mind and body may need time to integrate the EMDR experience. Ensure you get enough sleep at night to allow for proper rest and rejuvenation. Create a calming bedtime routine that includes a comfortable sleep environment.

Practice Grounding Techniques

EMDR can sometimes bring up intense emotions or memories. Engaging in grounding techniques can help you feel more present and connected to the here and now. Try a variety of deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness exercises.

Engage in Self-Soothing Activities

Focus on activities that bring you comfort and joy. Try taking a warm bath, reading a book, listening to music, going for a walk in nature, or spending time with loved ones. Engaging in self-soothing activities can help regulate your emotions and promote a sense of well-being.

Journal

Try writing down your thoughts and feelings in a journal to process your emotions and reflect on your EMDR sessions. Write freely without judgment and allow yourself to express whatever comes up for you.

Talk to a Trusted Support Person

Reach out to a trusted family member or friend to process your EMDR experience. Sharing your feelings and thoughts with someone who will listen and provide support can be very beneficial.

Practice Self-Compassion

Remember to be kind and gentle with yourself throughout the EMDR process. Healing takes time, and it's normal to have ups and downs along the way. Treat yourself with the same compassion and understanding that you would extend to a dear friend or family member.

In the journey of healing through EMDR therapy, self-care is foundational. By prioritizing self-care practices, individuals can navigate the emotional terrain of therapy with greater ease, harnessing their innate capacity for healing and growth. Remember, self-care isn't a luxury—it's a necessity for reclaiming and nurturing your well-being, one step at a time.

Here at Atlanta Wellness Collective, we want to help. For support, contact us or request an appointment online.

This blog post was written by Kim Ostrander, MA, LPC, NCC, CPCS.

Disclaimer: This blog is not intended to substitute professional therapeutic advice. Talk with your healthcare provider about your health concerns and before starting or stopping therapies. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct professional advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

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