Here are some ideas to consider and possibly discuss before you begin using this relaxation script with your child:
- Your child is in charge of her feelings. Help her to understand that she is in charge of her anger. She is at choice. Empower her to know that there are things she can do to feel better–such as feed the anger dragon what she needs.
- Help her to understand that there is nothing wrong with feeling angry. It sometimes can get in the way of feeling good and that is when we want to help it out.
- Address her anger non-judgementally. Allow her to feel what she feels. Help her to understand that she is in charge of how she feels and has the power to change how she feels in any given moment. These tools can help her shift how she feels when she wants to feel better.
- Listen. Be a container where all expression is okay. Just listen. Then help her to develop a plan to shift.
- Help her to understand that when she feels angry, it is simply a signal to take a look inside and see what it is that she needs right now and to get that need met so that she can feel better. She has the power to do that!
Train Your Anger Dragon Relaxation Script
- Getting Comfortable: Close your eyes. Feel free to gently place your hands over them if that feels good. Take a deep breath in, relaxing your body. As you breathe out, let go of tension, feeling more relaxed.
- Visualizing the Dragon’s Cave: Picture yourself sitting outside a cave. This is where your anger dragon lives. Notice the smoke drifting out – a sign your dragon is feeling angry. Think about why it might be upset. Remember, you’re always in control of your anger dragon.
- Understanding the Dragon’s Anger: Reflect on recent events that made you feel angry or upset. As you think about these, imagine your anger dragon responding, emerging from the cave. You’re safe and in charge. See your dragon in front of you – you decide how big or small, calm or fiery it is. Reassure your dragon that you’re there to help.
- Observing Your Dragon: Look closely at your dragon. What does it look like? Is it breathing fire or steam? Is it showing anger in some way? Ask your dragon what it needs, listening with your heart.
- Responding to the Dragon’s Needs: Hear what your dragon needs – a hug, to be listened to, or to express its feelings. Visualize yourself providing exactly what it needs, one by one. Keep doing this until your dragon feels better.
- Letting the Dragon Rest: Once your dragon is calm, say goodbye and let it retreat back into the cave. Assure it that you’ll be there next time it needs you.
- Returning to Reality: Remember, you can revisit this cave whenever you feel your anger dragon stirring. You’re in charge of caring for it. When you’re ready, open your eyes.
This guide is a gentle way to manage feelings of anger, helping you visualize and control your emotional responses in a calming, imaginative manner.