For Adults, Getting Grounded is a Good Thing!

Holidays are magical and heart warming.  However, if you have experienced trauma, that trauma may be triggered by it being either a particular holiday or holidays in general, as well as birthdays, anniversaries and other days we attach special significance to.

After a trauma, it’s normal to experience flashbacks, anxiety, and other uncomfortable symptoms. Grounding techniques help control these symptoms by turning attention away from thoughts, memories, or worries, and refocusing on the present moment.

In between practicing law and becoming a psychologist, I was blessed to have the opportunity to be a yoga teacher.  In that role, I learned some techniques that were really powerful for me. In my adult life, this was the time I needed them most. 

If today evokes past trauma or pain or anxiety for you, I hope you will give this grounding technique a try. If this doesn't work well, I have many more that I share with my patients and clients.

Know I am sending a lot of light and love your way.

Take 5 long, deep breaths through your nose, and exhale through puckered lips.

1. Place both feet flat on the floor. Wiggle your toes. Curl and uncurl your toes several times. Spend a moment noticing the sensations in your feet.
2. Stomp your feet on the ground several times. Pay attention to the sensations in your feet and legs as you make contact with the ground.
3. Clench your hands into fists, then release the tension. Repeat this 10 times.
4. Press your palms together. Press them harder and hold this pose for 15 seconds. Pay attention to the feeling of tension in your hands and arms.
5. Rub your palms together briskly. Notice and sound and the feeling of warmth.
6. Reach your hands over your head like you’re trying to reach the sky. Stretch like this for 5 seconds. Bring your arms down and let them relax at your sides.
7. Take 5 more deep breaths and notice the feeling of calm in your body.