The Regulating Power of Touch

I recently watched a video by Dr. Nazareth that deeply moved me. She spoke about the power of touch, and about how important our senses — touch, breath, smell, sight — are in regulating our nervous system.

We cannot forget that the body, brain, soul, and mind are not separate entities. They are part of the same team: our being. We are a complex, rich, and deeply human unity. Neuroscience continues to confirm this: what happens outside of us affects what happens within us, and vice versa.

Touch: A Simple, Powerful Tool

As we deepen our understanding of the nervous system and how our senses interact with it, therapeutic approaches are also evolving. These scientific advances are giving us increasingly effective tools to help us move out of fight, flight, or collapse states — and into more regulated, safe, and connected states.

One of these surprisingly simple yet profoundly powerful tools is conscious touch. As Dr. Nazareth explains, touching our skin with care and awareness, or gently caressing others with love and presence, helps to regulate our nervous system. It brings us into the present moment, into safety, into connection. It softly guides us into the ventral vagal zone, where we can breathe, feel, and rest.

Breath: Our Ever-Present Anchor

Breathing is another beautiful pathway for regulation. It’s our anchor, our base — available to us 24 hours a day. Through conscious breathing, we can relax our body during stressful moments, access our nervous system, and return to a state of balance.

When the body relaxes, the mind follows. Breathing attentively not only regulates us, but it also enhances memory, presence, and connection.

The Subtle Power of Smell and Sight

Let’s not forget about smell and sight — senses that also act as regulatory allies. A pleasant aroma, a peaceful image, soothing colours… these are subtle yet powerful tools to boost endorphins and help us feel better naturally.

Listening to the Wisdom of the Body

Our body holds immense wisdom. Listening to it, touching it with care, breathing with awareness, is an act of self-care and deep connection with who we are. In that space of self-regulation, the potential to heal, transform, and live more fully is born.

When You Need Extra Support

Sometimes, even with these tools, regulation can feel difficult — especially when we are carrying stress, anxiety, or unresolved trauma. That’s where counselling can help.

If you’d like support in navigating life’s challenges, learning how to regulate your nervous system, or finding more balance in your daily life, I am here to help. I offer counselling in English, Spanish, and Basque, online and in person in Killarney.

You don’t have to do this alone. If you feel ready to reach out, I’d be honoured to walk alongside you.

📩 You can get in touch with me here: www.kerrypsychotherapy.net