Body first, then words

Nervous system aware practices that help your body come with you

Small, repeatable practices that help your nervous system settle so your words and your body stay on the same team during tense moments.

From “My body is still in survival mode” to “I have one reset I actually remember to use.”

When to use these

You shake, sweat, or go numb during talks

Your jaw, stomach, or chest hold most of your stress

You know what you want to say but cannot access it

These are not medical interventions. They are light-touch supports to help you stay present.

Why the body comes first

When your nervous system is activated, your brain prioritizes safety over language. Regulation creates enough space for choice.

These practices pair well with court-visible communication principles and clear response timing.

Mini practice

Two minute reset before you reply

A short sequence to lower intensity before responding.

Anchor: Brief regulation

View practice

Prompt sheet

Body check in after hard contact

Prompts that help you notice what your body is holding so it does not carry the whole day.

Anchor: Somatic awareness

View prompts

Decision support

When to pause and when to reply

Guidance for deciding whether to respond now, later, or not at all.

Anchor: Timing and restraint

Open guide

These tools are part of The Listening Studio library for layered families navigating high conflict communication.