Grounding supports the mind-body connection, which is particularly important during times of stress. When we feel triggered or overwhelmed, our fight-flight-freeze response may activate, even if there is no real danger. While this response is designed to protect us, it can sometimes leave us feeling anxious, stuck, or disconnected. Grounding techniques help regulate this response by calming the nervous system and inviting a sense of safety back into the body. Reconnecting with the body is key in reducing fear, anger, or dissociation and fostering emotional balance (Van der Kolk, 2014).

Coping skills are techniques that we can use to help us manage or process our emotions. It is good to have coping skills that you may use in times of need

I realize more than ever the importance of incorporating grounding techniques to ensure that feelings of anxiety and stress are kept at par during our work days. These techniques help guide individuals to refocus on the present moment and create space between anxious feelings.

Practicing different ways of observations can help to see things as they are, and not what they could or should be, and help you move through change.

Mindfulness is something that we talk about a lot, but we don’t always know exactly how to do it. Janelle Traber explains how to understand and validate your emotions, and provides an example of a mindfulness tool that you can use at home.