Welcome to Cody’s Corner!

“Hi, friends! My name is Cody. And this is my corner.

Here you will find my “Cody’s Coping Skills” to help you lower your stress level. There are lots of different skills you can use, but these are some of my favorites.

Even if we haven’t met yet, I think you’re super important. If you are having a rough time with life, reach out to a safe adult and ask for help. You don’t have to do this alone.”

Cody’s Coping Skills:

  • Take 5: Take 5 is when you are mindful of your 5 senses for a few moments. How do you do this? Notice 1 thing you see. Take a slow breath. Notice 1 thing you hear. Take a second breath. Notice 1 thing you like the taste of. Take a third breath. Notice 1 thing you like the smell of. Take a fourth breath. Notice 1 thing you feel against your skin. Take a fifth breath. Congrats! You just completed Take 5! Repeat this as often as you like.

  • Belly Breathing: Belly Breathing is when you pay attention to how you breathe in and out. Most animals naturally breathe low from their belly’s (from their diaphragm, just below their ribs) instead of breathing high in their chests. Practice taking 5 slower, deeper breaths and making your belly move instead of your shoulders or upper chest. Drop your shoulders as you exhale. Notice how you feel after doing this.

  • Big Stretch: Stretching is good for your body and mind. You can stretch out your arms wide and try to touch both walls at the same time or reach up tall to try to touch the ceiling. If you’re super flexible, you can try to place your palms on the floor. Or you can pretend to stretch like a cat with your arms out in front of you. Combine a big stretch with belly breathing for a double up. Whatever stretch you do, be sure you say, “Biiiiiiiiiig Stretch,” or it doesn’t count. (I’m just kidding about that…but for real.)

  • Go for a Walk: Why do you think dogs like going for walks? Because we know that movement, fresh air, and sunshine are a good mix. So, if you are feeling down or anxious, go for a short walk! It doesn’t have to be a marathon. Just get outside for a stroll. Combine this with Take 5 for additional mindfulness as you walk. Maybe even take your dog with you.

  • Get a Snack: Sometimes when we aren’t feeling good or are a little growly, we may just need a snack. Your brain needs nutrients. Your body needs fuel. A quick nibble may help even out your emotions by giving your brain the extra umph it needs to keep your emotions regulated. Who’s a good human? You are! Get that snack.

  • Drink Water: Just like snacking, drinking water is very important to help regulate your mood and thoughts too. Our mouths get dry when we are anxious, worried, stressed, or not feeling safe. So drinking water helps your body readjust. Dehydration is not fun. So, get some cool, water in your body! Just don’t drink from my bowl.

  • Take a Nap: Short power naps are amazing! Let your body rest while you do belly breathing and take 5. Be sure that you are in a comfortable place that has the right temperature, right noise level, right light level, and right amount of pillows. Set an alarm for a time that works best for you (15 minutes? 45 minutes?). Just a note of caution: Taking naps are great! But be aware of how long and late you nap, so that it doesn’t mess up your big sleep at night time.

  • PLAY! Have Fun: Find what things and people bring you joy! Maybe it’s cat videos. Maybe it’s getting ice cream with a friend. Maybe it’s playing with your dog. Just be mindful and aware that you are having some fun and joy. Laugh. Laughter is the best medicine to help.

    These are some of my favorite Coping Skills. What are some of yours?