GROUNDING THROUGH THE 5 SENSES
We've all heard the term "grounding," which is related to finding a sense of stability or solid "ground" to lean on in times of turbulence. But how do we actually practice this in a moment of chaos or difficulty (like navigating the holidays in the middle of a pandemic)?
One of the most powerful ways to find "grounding" is by using our five sense perceptions to return us back to the present moment.
- Identify 5 things you can see
- Identify 4 things you can feel/touch
- Identify 3 things you can hear
- Identify 2 things you can smell
- Identify 1 thing you can taste
Notice how almost immediately, our heart rate slows down and our breath deepens. This practice is often suggested by therapists and psychologists to help de-escalate feelings of anxiety, stress or panic. Our bodies and their physical sensations are always existing right here, right now, no matter where our mind might be traveling — so in this way, we use our own embodied experience as the anchor amidst instability.
