This exercise is designed to give us a 'felt sense' of the body and to increase its capacity to deal with physical and emotional trauma. It derives from the work of Peter Levine and Franklyn Sills, and I have been using it in my practice for many years. This is not just a comfortable pastime, though it certainly is that. It is a method of becoming aware of your body at a very deep level and of building your capacity to deal with trauma.

As with all self-help methods, it is important that we take care. Even the nicest thoughts can sometimes bring a tear to the eye. Be nice to yourself.

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Sit comfortably so that your back is supported and you feet are flat on the floor. Start by noticing the weight of your feet on the floor. Become aware of your calves. This is not a relaxation exercise, so don't try to do anything, just notice the way they feel. Now notice the weight of your legs on the chair. How do all those nice long muscles in your thighs feel? Just notice. Feel the pressure of your bottom and your back on the chair. Become aware of your neck, your face, your arms and hands. Is there tension there? It doesn't matter if there is, just let it be there.

Now lead your attention to your abdomen. How does your belly feel? It can be quite difficult to feel this area at first, but keep trying. Does it feel warm, cool? Is there tension? Are there little areas of discomfort? Just notice them all. Don't try to control them. Just be aware of what it feels like to be you in this particular moment.

Rest in this body awareness for a minute or so.

Now!

Imagine yourself doing something that really resources you, makes you happy. Might be walking by the seashore, dancing, buying expensive clothes, meditating, whatever it is, imagine yourself doing it. Put in as much detail as you can. See the sights, smell the smells. Feel it.

Give yourself a few minutes of luxuriating in that day-dream and now go back to the felt sense of your abdomen. Do you feel the difference? Is there a feeling of warmth, maybe, of expansion? Some sense that lets you know something nice is going on?

Good! Now breathe into that feeling. As you breathe in, breathe in energy from the universe. As you breathe out, let the energy settle into that comfortable feeling. Notice what happens. Carry on for a few minutes.

That's it. You're done. Have a nice stretch. Gently get up from the chair and go about your day.