Things That Help Me Feel Grounded

When life feels loud or uncertain, I’ve learned that grounding doesn’t come from fixing everything at once. It comes from small, steady practices that remind my body and mind that I’m safe, present, and allowed to slow down.

These are some of the simple things that help me feel more rooted when I start to feel disconnected or overwhelmed.

Somatic breathing

Gentle, intentional breathing has become one of my most reliable anchors. Nothing forced or complicated — just slow breaths that move through my body. Sometimes I place a hand on my chest or stomach and focus on the feeling of air moving in and out. It’s a quiet reminder that I’m here.

Grounding exercises

When my thoughts feel scattered, I come back to my senses. Noticing what I can see, hear, touch, or smell brings me back into the moment. Even placing my feet firmly on the floor and feeling the ground beneath me helps create a sense of steadiness.

A hot drink

There’s something deeply comforting about holding a warm mug. Tea, broth, or even plain hot water — the warmth itself feels nurturing. It encourages me to pause, sit down, and let my nervous system soften.

Journaling

I don’t journal to solve problems. I journal to unload what’s swirling in my head. Sometimes it’s just a few sentences. Sometimes it’s messy and unfiltered. Writing helps me externalize my thoughts so they don’t feel so heavy inside.

Cooking simple, nurturing meals

Preparing food slowly and intentionally feels grounding in a very physical way. Chopping vegetables, stirring a pot, smelling something warm in the oven — it brings me out of my head and into my body. I try to choose meals that feel comforting rather than complicated.


None of these practices are meant to be perfected. They’re simply invitations to come back to myself — gently, without pressure.

Grounding, for me, isn’t about eliminating discomfort. It’s about creating enough steadiness to move through it with more ease.

Some days that looks like doing several of these things. Other days, just one is enough.

And that’s okay.

— Jessica

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