In my own recovery, what I foudn is that pulling a strategy out 'in the moment' is rarely useful. What I mean is that what you do this, it's like someone giving you a tool, and in an emergency, you are expected to pull it out and use it with precision and effectiveness.... do you get my drift?
Do rather than doing this, what I found most helpful is that you take a skill and practice it EVERY DAY, even a few times a day. Then when you need it, you will be so well-versed and practised at it that it actually works in the moment!
I tried this with deep breathing. For years I old me psych that it was useless and it just wasn't for me. But when I learnt about the science behind it, I started practicing it a few times everyday, especially just before going to bed. Then, when a triggering incident occurs, I am able to practice deep breathing, and I find I am able to re-regulate myself.
I hope this makes sense. Sorry for the long explanation.... @Dk5
