From CSES

What is Body-Low-Slow-Loop? (aka BLSL)

Disclaimer:The intention with the Body Low Slow Loop practice is to simplify the Somatic Experiencing principles in a very easy-to-remember sequence. This practice is a resourcing strategy initially modeled to a client by a therapist. It is not a substitute for seeking therapeutic support from a therapist..

“Body-Low-Slow-Loop” is a simple exercise that anyone can practice to gain increased resilience in Autonomic Nervous System function.

Use this easy guided practice daily and experience the benefits. It is useful to practice when it is not particularly needed, so that it will be familiar and available when it is needed, such as when “fight or flight” conditions are present.

Derived from the work of Peter Levine, this is a guided body-awareness exercise that takes about 10 minutes. After the basic concept is learned, this recording is not needed. The idea is to become familiar with this through repetition, perhaps once daily. Then if there is an upset, use it to re-establish autonomic equilibrium.

Body

Direct the attention in to the body to notice sensation. Since this is a body-centered practice, sensations (not emotions or thoughts) are emphasized as a point of interest.

Low

Direct the attention to the lower border or downward generally. What is the lowest portion of the sensation identified?

Slow

Ask about the details of the sensation. Orient to specifics about the sensation by making some specific inquiries about it.

Loop

Direct the attention somewhere else (tips of the fingers or tips of the toes) for at least a minute, then back to the first site. Repeat as needed, slowly and gently.

Downloads

MP3 version of a BLSL voice guided^[1] body-awareness practice (for iPod or any other audio player)
PDF document format of the BLSL practice (for easy reference and print-out)^[2]