In moments of stress, overwhelm, or emotional pain, it’s easy to feel unmoored—like the ground has dropped out beneath you. That’s where resourcing comes in.

What is resourcing?

Resourcing is the process of identifying and using internal and external supports that help you feel safe, stable, and grounded. These “resources” can be anything that gives you a sense of calm, strength, or connection—especially during difficult moments.

Think of resourcing as a toolkit you can draw from when life feels heavy. It helps regulate your nervous system and bring you back into the present moment.

Types of Resources

1. Internal Resources These come from within you and might include:
   1. A memory of a time you felt safe or strong
   2. A mantra or phrase that brings comfort
   3. Qualities like your courage, kindness, or resilience
   4. Your breath or bodily sensations that feel grounding

2. External Resources These are things outside of yourself, like:
   1. Supportive people (friends, therapists, pets)
   2. Nature – walking in a park, sitting under a tree
   3. Objects that bring comfort – a warm blanket, a favourite mug
   4. Music, art, or movement that soothes or energises you

How is resourcing used in therapy?

Resourcing is often one of the first things we explore in trauma-informed therapy. Before diving into deeper emotional work, we build a foundation of safety. Resourcing helps clients stay present and connected, rather than overwhelmed or shut down.

It’s especially helpful if you:

• Get easily flooded with emotion
• Find it hard to feel your body or stay grounded
• Live with anxiety, trauma, or sensory sensitivity

How to Use Resourcing in Everyday Life

You don’t need to be in a therapy session to practise resourcing.

Try this:

1. Pause and notice how you’re feeling.
2. Ask: What would help me feel even 5% more supported or safe right now?
3. Reach for a resource—maybe it’s taking a few breaths, calling someone, putting your feet in the grass, or listening to music that moves you.
4. Stay with the feeling of support or safety for a few breaths. Let it land in your body.

Final thoughts

Resourcing isn’t about avoiding hard feelings—it’s about building the capacity to stay with them without becoming overwhelmed. Over time, these small moments of safety can strengthen your ability to face challenges with greater steadiness and self-trust.

At Terra Soul Therapies, resourcing is woven gently into the work we do together—helping you reconnect with your strengths, your body, and your sense of wholeness.

Want to explore how resourcing might support you? Reach out for a session or visit www.terrasoultherapies.com.au to learn more.

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