Guest blog post written by Sarah Burton, LMHC
Did you know there are things you do all the time that can be used as a way to ground yourself? These grounding techniques are generally something you already do (or can do) every day. The goals of grounding are to stay present in the moment, decrease the severity of intense emotions, and calm an overactive nervous system. Here are five activities you can add to your grounding toolkit.
01
SINGING
I’m usually singing along to the song playing in my car, and when I do, I can’t worry about anything! Pick up your phone and turn on your favorite song. Then sing at the top of your lungs. Why not make it a karaoke party? If you’re unsure about singing out loud, sing to yourself and focus on the tune.
02
DANCING
You may also find me dancing along to the music in my car. Whether you are in your car, in your living room, or even the shower, you can dance! Turn on some of your favorite tunes and dance like no one is watching. Let your body move in whatever way it wants to. This can be a fun activity to do with your family and friends as well.
03
SHOWERING
When in the shower, it can be helpful to focus on the water as it hits your skin. What does it feel like? What is the temperature? What is the pressure? Pay attention to the smell of your body wash, shampoo, and conditioner. For all you daring souls, turn the water on cold for the last minute of your shower.
04
STRETCHING
You don’t have to be an expert yogi to take advantage of the benefits of stretching. Take 5-10 minutes each day and stretch your arms, legs, back, neck, shoulders, feet, and hands. Pay attention to your breathing and how your muscles feel as you stretch them. Just like yoga, there should be no pain, so only stretch to the point you feel comfortable with.
05
PLAYING
Play is an integral part of healing as many survivors were unable to fully engage in play as children. Go outside to play a game of catch with a child or dog, play a game of hide and seek or tag, play board or card games, get on the ground and build some Legos, or snuggle with a pet, etc. Whatever you choose to do to play, just make sure you are staying present in the moment and having fun!
Remember, the key to grounding is practice, practice, and more practice even when you don’t need to be grounded. Grounding techniques can be your best friend when they become habitual, and in time they will be instinctual. Utilizing grounding skills that you already do every day may make it easier to remember to practice. You may even get to the point where driving and singing and dancing, all at the same time, is your favorite thing to do!
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