How to make an Anchor Box
An anchor box works in the same way as a compassionate kit bag. It’s something that you put together yourself to help you through difficult emotions. This helpful resource is unique and personal to you, and can be an aid when dealing with sexual trauma.
Decorate it
Use a box or other container and take the time to decorate it, such as using your favourite colours, different textures or stickers. Try and keep it in an obvious place to remind yourself of it. The idea is that you go to it when you’re dealing with difficult emotions, so it’s important that it’s kept somewhere you can easily get to.
Fill it
Collect things that have meaning to you to keep in the box. Choose things that make you feel good or have a calming affect on you. The objects should bring up positive thoughts that inspire or motivate you. Items could include:
- Pictures
- CDs
- Scents/smells
- Letters
- Poems/quotes
- Grounding objects such as stones, crystals, stress putty
- Hobbies such as knitting, embroidery, colour therapy
There might be things you can’t physically put in the box such as a music download. Instead put something like a cover picture or printed song lyrics to remind you.
Use it
Put it somewhere you can easily find it rather than hidden away. If it’s hidden you may not think to use it when you’re feeling vulnerable. Try and keep it in a place you go to when you’re feeling upset, preferably somewhere that’s usually quiet such as the bedroom. You can continue to fill it gradually, as you take time discovering things that are helpful to you.
