Most of us are so busy with our lives it is easy to detach from our natural being, and so it’s more important than ever to find ways to re-center and ground ourselves. We can use breathing and grounding as tools to help us achieve just the inner peace and calmness that we need for this soothing serenity.
Breathing:
At its most fundamental level, breathing is the process through which we draw oxygen into our bodies and expel carbon dioxide. This automatic function ensures that every cell in our body gets the nourishment it needs. However, when approached with mindfulness, breathing can become much more.
Deep Breathing: When you breathe deeply, you increase the oxygen flow to your brain, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. It stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes a state of calmness.
Breathing as Meditation: Simply focusing on your breath can be a form of meditation. When you become aware of the rise and fall of your chest or the sensation of air passing through your nostrils, you anchor yourself in the present moment.
Breathing for Emotional Regulation: Breathing exercises can also be a quick way to manage overwhelming emotions. For instance, when angry or anxious, taking a few deep breaths can help bring clarity and calmness.
The Power of Grounding
Grounding, also known as “earthing,” refers to connecting with the earth’s natural energy. It is believed that direct contact with the large supply of electrons on the surface of our planet can neutralize free radicals and reduce both inflammation and disease.
Physical Grounding: Walking barefoot on natural surfaces like grass, sand, or soil can be a form of grounding. The direct contact is believed to provide numerous health benefits including improved sleep, reduced pain, and increased calm.
Mental Grounding: This involves techniques to divert your attention away from distressing thoughts or feelings and refocus on the present. This could be achieved by naming things you see around you, or tactile activities like holding onto an object and focusing on its texture.
Emotional Grounding: Techniques such as visualization, where you might imagine roots extending from your feet into the ground, can help in connecting with the earth and centering oneself.
The Therapeutic Angle
While the practices of breathing and grounding offer profound benefits, sometimes our internal challenges and emotions require a more in-depth exploration. This is where seeing a therapist can further assist. A therapist can:
Provide Professional Guidance: They can introduce structured breathing and grounding exercises tailored to individual needs.
Offer Deeper Insights: Therapists can help unravel the underlying causes of distress, providing a broader perspective.
Be a Pillar of Support: As you journey through self-discovery, therapists provide a safe and non-judgmental space to navigate complex emotions.
Breathing and grounding are age-old practices that connect us to our inherent nature and the world around us. By incorporating these techniques and, when necessary, seeking the assistance of a therapist, we can create a holistic approach to nurturing our mental and emotional well-being. Remember, the journey to inner calm often begins with a single breath and a step onto the natural earth.