What is Grounding and How to Practice It

What is Grounding for Self-Advocates

Grounding is a way of focusing on things that are happening right now. One of the simplest ways to do this is to pay attention to the sensations in your body. You can then use that information to help your body get into more comfortable positions.

Sensations…..

• • include sight, sound, smell, touch and taste.
  • can be comfortable, uncomfortable, or somewhere in the middle.
  • are different for each person.
  • can change over time.

Grounding Practice for Self-Advocates:

Grounding is a way of focusing on things that are happening right now. One of the simplest ways to do this is to pay attention to the sensations in your body. You can then use that information to help your body get into more comfortable positions.

Practice Activity 1:

Find ways of paying attention to your body’s senses. Which of these things do you like the most? When you find a sensation that is comfortable or calming, try to focus on it for a little longer.

• • What do you feel right now?
  • What can you see?
  • What can you hear?
  • What can you taste?
  • What can you smell?

Practice Activity 2:

• • A body scan is another good way to practice grounding.
  • Focus on each part of your body by starting at your head and going down until you get to your feet.
  • What does each part of your body feel like as you scan it?
  • Does it feel comfortable, uncomfortable or somewhere in the middle?
  • If any parts of your body feel uncomfortable, try changing your position so you feel a little better.