Protection and Support Figures

1. Reflect on Your Life Experiences:

   • Think about people, animals, or objects that have made you feel safe, protected, or supported.
   • These could include a parent, mentor, close friend, or even a pet.

2. Create an Imagined Protector:

   • If you struggle to think of a real-life figure, you can create an imagined protector.
   • This could be a powerful figure from a story, a nurturing animal, or even a symbolic shield or light.

3. Choose What Feels Right for You:

   • Your protector should evoke feelings of safety and strength. It doesn’t need to be perfect or detailed; it just needs to resonate with you.

1. Visualize Your Protector:

   • Close your eyes and imagine your protection figure standing by your side.
   • Focus on the details: What do they look like? How do they move? What emotions do they bring out in you?

2. Focus on Sensations:

   • As you visualize your protector, notice how your body feels. Do you feel lighter, calmer, or more at ease?
   • Let these sensations grow stronger as you focus on your protector.

3. Use a Cue Word or Symbol:

   • Choose a word or image that represents your protector. For example, you might use a phrase like "Guardian" or imagine a protective barrier surrounding you.
   • When you feel overwhelmed, repeat the cue word or focus on the symbol to connect with your protector quickly.

4. Apply Your Protector in Challenging Situations:

   • Picture your protector stepping in during a moment of difficulty. Imagine them shielding you, offering words of encouragement, or guiding you.

• Practice Daily:
  Spend a few minutes each day visualizing your protector. The more you practice, the stronger the connection will feel.

• Write About Your Protector:
  Journal about your protector’s qualities and how they help you feel safe. This can deepen your connection.

• Adapt as Needed:
  Your protector may change over time or depending on the situation. Allow yourself to adapt and refine this resource as you grow.

It’s common to feel resistance or difficulty imagining a protection figure, especially if you haven’t experienced strong feelings of safety in the past. Here’s how to work through it:

• Start Small:
  Focus on abstract symbols like a shield, a wall, or a comforting light.

• Use Fictional Characters:
  Draw inspiration from books, movies, or mythology—any figure that represents protection to you.

• Be Patient:
  This process takes time. With consistent practice, it will become easier to connect with your protector.

 In Stressful Moments: Visualize your protector offering you strength and shielding you from negativity.

To Build Confidence: Call upon your protector when preparing for a challenging task or situation.

For Emotional Regulation: Use this resource to ground yourself when feeling overwhelmed or unsafe.