Comfort is the feeling of physical and mental ease. It’s the feeling of a warm, fuzzy blanket or a hotel with familiar channels.
Synonyms: pacify, console, solace, relieve, soothe.
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1. Take a Break
It is not uncommon for couples to feel that they need time away from one another. Whether it’s for self-exploration, or to work on specific life goals, taking a break can be a powerful tool for navigating relationship challenges.
However, before you agree to take a break, be sure you are doing it for the right reasons. According to Comrie, a break should only be taken “under temporary circumstances that you are certain can be resolved on the break.”
If you agree to a break, set clear boundaries from the start. This will help you avoid confusion and hurtful surprises down the road. Set up checkpoints, like the end of each week or every time you have a therapy session. This will keep you accountable to the goals and reflections you have agreed on.
It’s also important not to agree to a break during the heat of an argument. Emotions will be high and you will not be able to clearly communicate what you mean by a break. Also, don’t use a break as a way to punish or scare your partner, because it will almost always backfire.
2. Listen to Music
It’s no secret that music has the power to influence your mood, but you may be surprised by how many ways listening to tunes can bring comfort. Whether it’s an old classic you love that reminds you of happy times or a new song that reflects your current emotions, music can help make you feel less alone in your struggles.
Research has shown that certain types of music can soothe and relax you, lowering your blood pressure and heart rate while decreasing levels of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. Listening to soothing or calming music can also help you fall asleep faster and get a better night’s rest.
It’s important to note, however, that the type of music you listen to can have a different impact on each person. For example, while a beautiful symphony or the tender voice of Billie Eilish might help you concentrate during work, your favorite dance beats might distract you and increase your anxiety. So, experiment with different genres and find the right fit for you! It’s worth it in the end to find a playlist that works for you.
3. Eat
Eating comfort food can be part of celebrating, connecting with family and friends, or just feeling cared for. It’s also a common way to soothe feelings of stress or sadness.
The reason that comfort foods make you feel good is that they activate a reward pathway in your brain. They may also stimulate dopamine in the area that regulates your emotions and mood. Over time, this can lead to overeating, especially when the food is high in fat and sugar, which can increase your risk for metabolic disease.
Often, comfort foods are rich in sugar, fat and salt and low in nutrients. This can make them addictive because they taste good, which makes it hard to stop eating them even after you’re full. To keep comfort eating from sabotaging your health, try to enjoy these foods as part of a meal and eat more vegetables and lean protein. When possible, swap refined grains for whole ones, such as brown rice or oatmeal. And, if you’re having comfort food made from carbs like mashed potatoes or bread, add some veggies and beans to boost the nutritional value.
4. Talk
A person who comforts someone makes them feel less worried or unhappy. She was a great comfort to him during that difficult time. The Bible uses the word comfort to mean encouragement, support or solace.
When talking while you are feeling comfortable, try to match the other person’s breathing pace. This shows that you care about them and that they can trust you. It is also a good idea to keep eye contact as much as possible, as this will deepen your connection and make them feel that you are really listening.
Try to avoid criticizing or judging the other person. People are not better or worse than you; they just have different traits. Trying to compare yourself to them will only cause you discomfort. Be aware of nonverbal CARE cues like nodding, asking questions and leaning in, as these will help the other person to feel that you are empathizing with them. This is very important for them to feel comfort. If you can, try telling a short story about yourself as well; it will engage the other person and help them connect with you more.
5. Move
Moving to a new home is an exciting time but can be stressful if you are not feeling comfortable. To make sure you are comfortable spend some time making your house feel like home. Whether it is decorating, creating a reading nook or purchasing a unique recliner to fall into spend some time in that area when you are feeling stressed or anxious.
Comfort noun A state of quiet enjoyment; a feeling of ease and satisfaction; relief from pain or want; solace in distress; reassurance and cheer. It is sometimes used as a synonym for consolation, but it differs from that in that it tends to be more heart-felt and positive than mere consolation.
The word can also be used to refer to a wadded bedquilt, or something similar, that is placed on a seat or a bed. It is often given as a gift to those who are in sorrow or trouble, and it gives them courage and strength to face their troubles.