Phase 1: Calming the Storm
Establishing Physical Safety, Calming the Nervous System, and Making Grounded Decisions
Part 2 of the “Rising Out of the Fog” Trauma-Informed Workbook Series for Healing from Narcissistic Abuse
This 28-page downloadable PDF workbook is designed to support survivors in the vulnerable, often overwhelming stage immediately following a coercive or toxic relationship. Created by a licensed therapist specializing in narcissistic abuse recovery, Phase 1: Calming the Storm helps you regain a sense of physical and emotional safety while gently guiding your nervous system toward regulation.
You’ll begin to understand what’s happening in your body and mind — and gain tools to calm the chaos and make grounded, informed decisions.
In this phase, you will:
Create a safety plan tailored to your situation
Normalize fear and understand how danger may arise after leaving a controlling partner
Differentiate unhealthy behavior from abuse
Understand your body’s fight-or-flight response
Connect the impact of unmet basic needs to nervous system suppression
Recognize red flags and signs of escalation
Build decision-making skills rooted in clarity rather than panic
Begin developing coping tools and regular self-care practices
Calming the Storm offers both clinical insight and practical exercises to help you move out of survival mode and into a safer, more empowered place. Use it alongside therapy or as a guided companion in the early phases of recovery.