One of the most common and simple coping techniques to manage various mental health symptoms is the practice of grounding.
It's been widely known to reduce anxiety by distraction and helping a person stay focused on the present moment.
We all use these tactics, sometimes unknowingly. There's a necessity of decompression that is built into us. A need to pause. Take a moment. Recalibrate.
These moments are vital. We have to fight to stay present in a world that continues to spin faster than ever. There's nothing worse than hearing your toddler confront you directly, “Dad! Get off your phoneeeee”.
Oops. Caught me.
When you “stir the pot” the activity takes you out of your own head and into the current moment.
Focus. Presence. Direction.
Even if it lasts just a few seconds, these momentary breaks help ground us. Our brain gets a chance to think logically.
Of course stirring a pot of noodles is one way, but there are lots of other opportunities in our daily life to stay grounded.
Pumping gas. Focusing on breathing. Squeezing the stress ball. Washing your hands.
Take opportunities to “check out” and focus on the basics. Get your mind to the present moment and try not to over-think or give anxiety a foothold in your fast-paced routine.
Your thought life is too important to leave overwhelmed and in a constant heightened state.
Find a way to bring yourself back to these present moments that allow you to slow everything down. Life is too short to race through without centering yourself once in a while.