Tactile Healing for Emotional Regulation
A hands-on approach to self-care, grounded in sensory and trauma-informed practices.
Trauma-Informed Note:
This post discusses self-care in the context of trauma recovery. While it does not include graphic details, some concepts may resonate deeply. Please engage at your own pace and with self-compassion. If you need support, reach out to a licensed mental health provider.
Author’s Note:
This guide is intended for educational and wellness purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or psychiatric care. Please consult with your provider before starting any new therapeutic practices.
—Leonarda Gaige, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC
Rooted healing begins beneath the surface.
Introduction
In trauma recovery, healing often begins not with words — but with sensation. Our bodies store stress, grief, and resilience. Touch, texture, and grounded sensory experiences help us return to ourselves, slowly and gently.
In September of 2022, after Hurricane Ian passed through our area, my backyard was left in shambles. A large palmetto tree had been lifted from the ground, leaving behind a gaping hole. I decided to plant a pink Bougainvillea vine in its place. Two years later, after careful watering, pruning, and time, the vine has filled the space — spilling over the fence with vibrant green and pink.
The now Vibrant pink Bougainvillea cascading over the white vinyl fence.
Healing is like that. It’s tactile. It’s layered. It takes care.
🧭 That’s the thought behind my new guide: 7 Days of Tactile Self-Care (with a bonus day). A printable resource to help you reconnect with your body through grounding and sensory-based practices — one day at a time.
💡 What’s Inside: Each day offers a gentle, hands-on activity designed to support:
👉 Emotional regulation
👉 Nervous system healing
👉 Trauma-informed embodiment
Activities include gardening, clay work, barefoot grounding, and more — drawn from principles in sensorimotor therapy, polyvagal theory, and somatic healing practices.
📥 Download your free guide here:
Link here: https://www.myjourneycompasshealth.com/s/7_Days_of_Tactile_Self_Care_Guide.pdf
Whether you’re navigating trauma, supporting others, or simply longing to feel more present — tactile self-care is a gentle place to begin.
🪴 Let healing take root in your hands.
“But we have this treasure in jars of clay…”To remind us that even when shaped by affliction, we are turning the hurt into something beautiful.
For more trauma-informed support and information, visit www.myjourneycompasshealth.com or book a free 15-minute consultation below.
Additional Resources
· The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D.
· Sensorimotor Psychotherapy: Interventions for Trauma and Attachment by Pat Ogden, PhD
· Waking the Tiger by Peter Levine, PhD
· Polyvagal Institute: https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org
· Trauma Research Foundation: https://www.traumaresearchfoundation.org
References
· Van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma.
· Ogden, P., & Fisher, J. (2015). Sensorimotor Psychotherapy: Interventions for Trauma and Attachment.
· Porges, S. W. (2011). The Polyvagal Theory: Neurophysiological Foundations of Emotions, Attachment, Communication, and Self-regulation.