5 Ways To Feel More Grounded

In a time where technology rules our lives and distractions are everywhere, it’s easy to lose sight of what really matters. We forget the world around us in favor of a digital one. As a result, we’re disconnected from ourselves, real life, and other people. We navigate situations with a technology-first mindset instead of listening to and trusting our instincts.

If you’re ready to come back down to earth and reconnect with yourself on a deeper level, here are a few ways to feel grounded.

Go barefoot

Nothing connects us more to nature than skin to dirt or grass. That said, take off your shoes and socks and let your feet breathe. Feel the earth and its comfort.

If you can’t find an appropriate place to do that, opt to walk around barefoot in the comfort of your home. When you’re in the shower or taking a bath, notice how the water cleanses and surrounds you with clarity.

Remember to breathe

While breathing is automatic, it should also be done intentionally. Pausing to take a couple of deep breaths frees the mind and body. Better yet, a lungful of fresh, clean air recharges the soul.

Whenever you get the chance, take a walk where nature is most prevalent. Hear the wind sing, watch the trees dance, and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. It’s a time to clear your thoughts and wash away your worries.

Chew your food

Seriously, this is not a joke. Nowadays, we’re almost wired to do everything fast, even eating. When was the last time you didn’t take lunch to your desk or scarf it down on the go?

Next time you sit down for a meal (and actually sit, not stand or lean), savor each bite. Name the flavors you taste: bitter, sweet, salty, sour. Take your time; it’s not a race to finish your plate.

When you don’t rush, you’re more in tune with your body, and you’ll understand when you’re full. Your stomach will thank you as it’ll digest food easier, and your mind will appreciate the appropriate break.

Journal

It doesn’t matter if you’re not a writer or a highly sensitive person. Everyone is capable of scribbling down thoughts and feelings—you just need to quiet your environment and sit with yourself to really hear what your heart and mind are saying. (If that sounds scary, remember that fear is only information. It’s needed to understand how to evolve and take action.)

It doesn’t need to be perfect; you can write (or draw, paint, or collage) as much or as little as you want. Heck, you don’t even need to follow the lines of the page if you don’t want to.

However you journal, just make the time spent doing it count. The goal is to feel a little lighter. It’s for your eyes only, so might as well make it a place you want to return to.

Move your body

We weren’t made to sit around on our phones or computers all day. We’re made to move—to dance, sing (even if it’s terrible), and shift as often as the ocean does. Let this be the time you connect with your intuition.

Put your earbuds in, crank up your favorite playlist, and let the pulsating vibe move you. Or go to a quiet room and gently move through the flow of yoga poses. Movement can lift your mood or settle your energy—use it wisely for what you need.