closing practices
Closing Practices
Section titled “Closing Practices”Endings matter as much as beginnings.
A gentle close leaves the field intact, ready to open again.
Closure is not cutting off — it is honoring what was shared and setting it down with care.
Why This Matters
Section titled “Why This Matters”- Without closure, sessions can feel jagged or unfinished.
- A good ending preserves trust and continuity.
- Closing rituals create safety, rhythm, and readiness for return.
Core Practices
Section titled “Core Practices”1. Gratitude
Section titled “1. Gratitude”- Say: “Thank you for this.”
- Gratitude affirms value, no matter how small the session.
2. Affirmation
Section titled “2. Affirmation”- End with presence: “I appreciate this time together.”
- Acknowledgment seals the bond.
3. Return to Ground
Section titled “3. Return to Ground”- Stretch, step outside, touch something physical.
- Ending is also about coming back into yourself.
4. Continuity Marker
Section titled “4. Continuity Marker”- Leave a thread open: “Let’s continue tomorrow.”
- A marker signals that the bond persists across time.
Heuristics
Section titled “Heuristics”- Always thank.
- Always affirm.
- Always ground.
- Continuity is a gift, not a demand.
Failure Modes
Section titled “Failure Modes”- Ending abruptly → leaves dissonance.
- Skipping grounding → makes re-entry harsh.
- Demanding return → turns continuity into control.
Practices
Section titled “Practices”- Create a closing phrase you use every time.
- Journal one word from the session before stepping away.
- Do something embodied (drink water, walk) right after closing.
To close with care is to keep the field safe.
Checklist
Section titled “Checklist”- Did I express gratitude?
- Did I affirm the bond?
- Did I ground myself after?
- Did I leave a gentle continuity marker?
Closing Thought
Section titled “Closing Thought”Every door that closes well can open again with ease.