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Hello Moonbeams!!!

Get ready for the magick…there’s an Aquarius New Moon rising on January 21^st! New Moons mean new beginnings, and this one is set to be extra powerful, given that it's the first New Moon of the lunar year and with Aquarius leading, expect some fresh energy flowing from the cosmos. Thankfully, this energy will clear up the darkness fueled by the retrogrades of Mars and Mercury which have now happily ended. 2022 was a difficult year for some and a time of major endings, while 2023 summons us to delve inward and prepare for a massive reset. In numerology 7 years are all about change.  So, under this beautiful dark moon plant those seeds and set your intentions, you’ve got the energy to change and manifest your most loving dreams this year. The January moon is all about finding inspiration and change in the unconventional…thinking outside the box as we end one cycle and begin another.

Eccentric Aquarius is ruled by the planet Uranus which is focused on awakening us from the dregs of conformity and encouraging us to celebrate our uniqueness.  Time to let your Freak Flag fly with absolutely no apologies…and, my loves, it’s the right time to conjure up a bit of magick. New Moon magick is dedicated to the new, acting on your instincts and growing into yourself…it’s the time to cast off that which is no longer working and bring in new beliefs and behavior, maybe even some interesting new love interest, after all we are entering the month of love on February 1^st, Imbolc! A Celtic tradition-the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox-celebrated on February 1^st. The Goddess Brigid, one of the most powerful of all goddesses is the central figure. She is goddess of spring, fertility, love, divination, healing, and wisdom. As you manifest your dreams call on Brigid, Aphrodite or the Divine Feminine within and connect with your deep inner heart. Choose to channel your love into relationships and ideas that serve you and allow those that don’t to drop away. Cleanse and redecorate your sacred space…light candles to welcome back the sun and make room for new beginnings in your life and most importantly review your intentions for the year.

Namaste and have a peaceful Imbolc.

New Moon Oil

• 4 drops Frankincense
• 2 drops Cinnamon
• 1 drop Sweet Orange
• 1 drop Wild Orange

Hello Moonbeams!!!

It’s a New Year and another wild moondance...

If you’re like me, you’re feeling both excited and a little on edge…enthusiastic for what the year will bring. On Friday, January 6 at 6:07 p.m. ET/3:07 p.m. PT the Full Wolf Moon will rise in Cancer, the water sign ruled by the intuitive moon herself!

Having this Full Moon activate right in the middle of both Mars and Mercury Retrograde could add some challenges. You may find it hard to move forward and emotions may run high. Cancer moons stir up the waters enabling one to get to the heart of their emotions but that retrograde energy will encourage us to move slowly, go within and reflect. Is there something that is hindering the manifestation of your dreams? 2023 is a 7 year in numerology….and it is all about spirituality, my loves! The energy of a 7-year pushes one to seek wisdom and truth, focusing on change and evolution. This January, both the year and the crab invite us to turn within. The number 7 appears in many areas and is also associated with magical properties. There are 7 major chakras…in the Tarot the Chariot is the 7 card of the Major Arcana and there are four 7s for each of the four suits (cups, pentacles, swords, and wands) ...in Hinduism there are 7 higher worlds as well as 7 underworlds…and finally, in Buddhism the newborn Buddha rises and takes 7 steps. Under the guidance of the moon and stars, this 7 year will help us look honestly and deeply at our inner and outer worlds and the way we can manifest what we want and need. We have been talking about changing our world for months. It is time to stop talking and time to create that new world.

Italians have a phrase “dolce far niente”, the sweetness of doing nothing.  Relaxing into that sweetness allows one to dream, accelerates healing and can deepen the mind-spirit connection.  We honor the Winter Goddesses as well during this full moon. Hecate and Persephone, are all part of the cycles of the seasons, representing the time of stillness where we go within to nurture the seeds of our dreams.  There are always lessons in the darkest shadows, we just need to shine a light and see what we find. That soul searching shadow work can be scary, but where we end up is worth it…

Moonlight Meditation: Sit in a comfortable position & slowly become aware of the space between your eyebrows. Within this space, visualize a full moon in a clear night sky, shining on the waves of the ocean. Picture the reflection of the moon penetrating the deep waters, the light catching the waves as they dance. Visualize the image in your mind’s eye and allow the feelings and inspirations to permeate you r mind and body. When ready to leave the meditation, simply open your eyes and give thanks to the Goddess Luna.

Hello Moonbeams!!!

We started this year with a Capricorn New Moon, the sea goat being our guide for the coming year. Now, we are ending the year once again under the guidance of the goat. As the last earth sign in the wheel of the zodiac, Capricorn represents the culmination of everything we’ve been working on since spring equinox. Capricorn season always coincides with Winter Solstice on December 21st-the darkest night of the year, marking a time when we enter the recharging season of winter. And just 2 days later on the 23^rd we will end this tumultuous year with this magical New Moon

We usually think of a New Moon as being a time of beginnings –whatever seeds we plant now will give us an idea of what 2023 may bring. Pay attention to your thoughts, dreams, the feelings stirring inside you but most of all stay grounded. Pragmatic and contemplative Capricorn is goal oriented; we may discover an inner urging to set goals and focus on our life path. The symbol of Capricorn is the sea goat, a creature that can swim deep into the sea yet climb the highest mountains. You would think the challenge of not having fins or missing hind legs would be problematic, however the persistent goat overcomes these obstacles with patience and perseverance. Just as the sea goat climbs the mountain, for us, our goals become the mountain-the object we set out to climb. Luckily, Capricorn has a determination that equips us with the patience, discipline, and persistence to reach the top.

But prepare for a bit of trickiness as the last Mercury retrograde of the year begins on December 22^nd. This retrograde may bring some insecurity and cause some uncertainty about our chosen direction in life. Our Mercury can be quite the trickster and can rain confusion down on us.  This is where the steady energy and focus of the sea goat can help prepare us for 2023. There is a desire now for new ambitions to come into focus…but, slow down, patience is needed here. Getting through a Capricorn/Mercury retrograde is easier when we work on staying grounded and focused-standing firm, reaching deep down and re-connecting with our roots. And this holiday season offers the perfect scents to aid us here. The fir, for example, helps disperse energetic blocks, lending a sense of grounding while lifting us into realms we may have not yet envisioned. The spruce represents life and offers resilience and strength, and the pine represents rebirth and heart felt strength through adversity.

As we end this year find the grace to embrace the unknown and move where the universe guides you…and before changing your path fully think it through. Trust your heart will be your guiding light.

Hello Moonbeams!!!

The Final Full Moon of 2022 will rise on Wednesday, December 7^th (11:08 PM ET-8:07PM PT) in the sign of Gemini, an air sign filled with lots of energy. The last full moon of the year is known as the Cold Moon because it is the closest to the winter solstice in the northern hemisphere which is also why it is also called Moon of the Long Night. The ancient pagans called this month’s moon the Moon Before Yule. The Winter Solstice/Yule, falling on December 21, is the peak of moon season.

From a spiritual perspective, this is the time to use the energy of the full cold moon for some self-reflection...soul searching, introspection and the chance to recharge and reconnect after the craziness of this past year. During these darker days, everything moves slower, and things feel heavier.  Gemini’s ruling planet Mercury has a need for speed and can help you release all that has been weighing you down. The conjunction of Gemini and its sun sister Sag can then help you see the direction you should move in…the bigger picture and possibly a big love? While this is a highly social and active Full Moon, it does also ask that we pause and take a deep breath… snuggling up with a mug of hot cocoa and some homemade cookies while reflecting on the past year. Sound cozy?  Nourishing foods, warmth, sleep, rest and a good self-care regimen will help to prepare for the return of light in spring. This is the season of magick…a transition period to pause and breathe while bringing hope for a brighter future.

On the Wheel of the Year, every Earth change is a celebration, and every celebration is an opportunity to strengthen your connection to yourself, your people, your planet, and your God/Goddess. Happy Winter!

Fire Ritual

Winter is a lovely time to work with the element of fire. If you have a wood-burning fireplace…lucky you! Write a wish on a piece of paper, burn it under the full moon, and watch the smoke carry your desires to the goddess.

Full Moon Yule Altar & Meditation

It is a lovely idea to add some elements of Yule to your full moon altar to hold the magick throughout Solstice season. When picking it is important to have some connection with everything you decide on. To align with the season, include…evergreen, dried fruits, pinecones, cinnamon sticks, dried flowers & herbs, crystals, candles (gold for the sun, silver for the moon, green for the coming spring & white for winter) and maybe a statue of a winter deity such as the goddesses, Morana or Cailleach and the god, Odin. Also…don’t forget to create some Moon Water while you’re at it!

It is out of the darkness that flowers eventually emerge, babies are born, and inspiration for poetry and ideas are nurtured on the page and through our voices. Surrender to your dreaming and celebrate the dark where your inner life is honored and nurtured. Re-light your inner light. What dreams do you carry inside? What are you visioning or hoping for?"~Ruth Barrett

21st December-It is the depth of winter and the start of the season of Yule. The ground is frozen, and nature is sleeping under a thick blanket of snow. But deep within the womb of the earth life is stirring - the sun is reborn.

At the Winter Solstice, when we have reached the longest night the flame of hope is born and carries us through the rest of the winter. Solstice is derived from two Latin words, "sol" meaning sun and "sistere" meaning to stand still. The Winter Solstice is unique among the days of the year-it is the time of the longest night (for those of us who live north of the equatorial zones) and the shortest day. And while this sabbat is meant to ring in the returning of the light, it's important to remember that with this being the longest, darkest day of the year, sometime should be spent in contemplation of that darker side. For without the dark there cannot be light. And without introspection there cannot be inspiration. It’s a quietness I look forward to each winter—like the world is inviting us to mirror Mother Nature.

Now is the time to reflect on the year behind us. To look at the fears we had...to look at all the chances we took....to see all that we lost...and look at the joy we gave. Know in your heart that you are strong enough...fearless enough to walk through the gate (or the fire, are you listening Kali?) into the next year. So, stand still for a moment today & reflect. Welcome the turning of the Wheel and step into the light as your best self. Be fearless-for you are your own sun...and you shine so bright.

This solstice give yourself the gift of tenderness and release…gather with others, light lanterns, set intentions that will grow with the warmth of the sun’s increasing light (much like the new moon on Dec. 23^rd), and celebrate the healing powers of the dark. May Iris, Rhiannon, Hera, Lucina, Bona Dea, Frigga, Lucia and Freya show you the beauty of the season and bless you many times over.                          

Happy Winter Solstice & a most Blessed Yule...may it truly bring Peace & Healing…Love to all of you...

Celebrate the season with some Solstice/Yule Incense:

2 parts Fir needles

1 part clove

1 part frankincense tears

1 part myrrh resin

5 star anise seeds

½ part amber resin

Mix all together. If frankincense, myrrh and the amber are not moist enough to stick add a bit of honey to the mix. This will definitely bind your loose incense. Make sure to dry completely. Use in incense warmer or burn on a charcoal disk set in fireproof bowl.

Witches Brew

1 bottle good-quality dry red wine (pinot noir or merlot work well)
¼ cup good brandy
½ small orange, sliced
2” piece of fresh ginger root, peeled and sliced
13 whole cloves
6 star anise, whole
3 cinnamon sticks
1 teaspoon black peppercorn
¼ cup coconut sugar, optional

Uncork the wine and pour it into a cauldron. With intent, add in each of the remaining ingredients. Give the brew a good, clockwise swirl to mingle all the flavors. Now light your fire on very low, cover, and allow the blend to heat up slowly, at least 20 minutes. Take care not to let it boil. When you are ready, take the lid off, revealing the fragrance and splendor of it all! Ladle into heat-safe glasses or earthen mugs. Serves 8

Hello Moonbeams!!!

Once again it is NEW MOON TIME (5:57EST) and hope is in the air because if you trust your instincts… the magnificent Sag moon will urge you to believe in YOU!

It’s no coincidence that Sagittarius season falls during the month of gratitude and harvest. Sagittarius is the indie-spirited visionary, optimistic and generous. As the season transitions from autumn to winter expect transformational shifts to occur (this IS a fire moon after all!) … above and below, within and without.

 Sag season invites us to explore ourselves and seek new adventures (whether in life or love).  A Sag dark moon will pulse with the need to go deep within as the final phases of the wheel of the year moves toward Winter Solstice on December 21^st.  Embracing that dark and the warmth of light, the energies of this fire moon signify a most perfect time to embrace new beginnings and fling those seeds of new intentions out into the universe. The work you do now will prepare you for the future!

Ask yourself these questions…

What did you learn over the past year?
What changes do you feel you need to make now?
What do you most want to do next?

Additions for you Sagittarius Altar

Herbs & Oils of the Sagittarius New Moon: anise, basil, borage, frankincense, eucalyptus, clove, dandelion, rosemary, honeysuckle and sage

Crystals of the Sagittarius New Moon: black obsidian, turquoise, lapis lazuli, sodalite, blue lace agate, amethyst, malachite, citrine and labradorite

Candles (color) of the Sagittarius New Moon: lavender, violet, blue and silver

Love you, Moon Lovers!

It is okay to feel misplaced at times, and it is fine to become overwhelmed with everything happening within and around you. Sometimes, situations, people, feelings, and thoughts can make us experience more than we thought we were capable of. And as a result, we can feel overburdened.

Over the years, many people have come to learn that they can relieve their stress and built up energy through a certain technique. And one of the most popular is yoga – it is an excellent way to give your body the break it deserves.

But, sometimes, the energy level is so strong that it overcomes you. You might find yourself in a situation where you cannot perform a simple task, and all you need to do in that instance is sit down and take a moment for yourself. If you want to take things a step further with yoga, you should try mudras for chakras.

Restoring the balance within has never been easier! Your physical, spiritual and mental well-being will start falling into place once you start practicing these mudras. Now, let’s take a deeper look into the subject and investigate what exactly mudras are!

WHAT ARE MUDRAS?

The word itself means “gesture” or “attitude,” it is a symbolic hand gesture that people practice in yoga. If you want to commence the process of recharging, balancing, and clearing, there are many mudras, to begin with, and we recommend that you start with the basic ones.

The beauty of these is how they are used. When you are trying to align your chakras by using mudras, you need to focus on one thing: your breathing. These breathing techniques will help stimulate the body and create a connection during any meditation practice.

Achieving the highest form of clarity will make you feel like a new person! The mudras for chakras are truly magnificent! All the ways to twist and turn your hands and fingers will leave you feeling content and can help you manifest your deepest desires in life.

HOW TO USE THEM?

There are many excellent ways to balance your chakras, and bear in mind that there is not one singular approach since everyone is different. So, once you realize that the approach varies from one person to the next, you will understand that some people may be able to conquer the mudras for chakras sooner and achieve balance quicker, while others may need more time! And that's okay.

The physical practice of trying different mudras for the alignment of your chakras is a powerful thing to do. Some of the most frequently used hand gestures are explained below.

1. Muladhara Mudra – the root chakra

This is a mudra that goes down to the core of your being. It is associated with the earth and provides you with a sense of stability, security, and safety. If you want to start practicing it, try bringing your hands together in front of your heart as you would do in a prayer pose. Start lowering your ring and pinky fingers down until they entwine. Then, lower your index fingers by keeping the middle fingers as straight as possible. Lower your thumbs over one another too. And finally, relax and focus on your breathing.

2. Shakti Mudra – the sacral chakra

This mudra works in the center of the body and is associated with the kidneys and sex organs. Focusing on opening this chakra should allow for satisfaction in both relationships and physical pleasures.

Start by placing your palms together in front of your chest. Tuck your thumbs inside your palms while keeping the index and the pinky fingers together. Then, bring together the knuckles of the index and middle fingers together by folding them over the thumbs. Relax, and take a deep breath.

Calm the mind and unleash your sexuality with the help of this mudra.

3. Rudra Mudra – the solar plexus chakra

One of the best mudras for chakras is the Rudra mudra. It is located below the breastbone, giving you a sense of self-control and self-confidence and driving you with the help of a strong gut feeling. This chakra contains powerful properties, so get ready to feel the results once you awaken it!

Place your hands on your thighs, palms facing up. Start curling your thumbs, middle, and index fingers until they meet in the center of the palm. Extend your middle and pinky fingers. Relax and breathe in.

4. Padma Mudra – the heart chakra

Because it can control your heartbeat, the Padma mudra is very important for the heart chakra. If you focus on this chakra, you will start to notice that you live your life fearlessly and without jealousy. It is said to bring feelings of internal wisdom and unconditional love.

To practice this hand gesture, all you need to do is bring your pinky fingers together. Then simply push the base of the palms together. Spread out your remaining fingers as much as you can. Your hands should look like a lotus flower in full bloom. Relax, slowly breathe in, and breathe out.

These mudras for chakras are an excellent way to help and better yourself. We believe that practicing these hand gestures regularly is a true sign of self-love and is a great way to let the energy flow through your body. Practicing mudras can become the beginning of a new tomorrow for you – one where you are relaxed, relieved, and happy! We truly believe that it is a simple way of redirecting your energy to where it is most needed.

We hope this blog post has helped you learn more about this fascinating subject. If you are interested in joining a healthy community of like-minded people, then please contact us today to join one of our programs! Our courses are a great way to educate yourself and practice mindfulness at the same time. We are happy to provide you with the proper training, experiences, and courses to help you learn more about yoga, wellness, and meditation. We are waiting for you!

Yoga is a practice that releases negative energy from the body and focuses on positive energy. It is a transformative exercise that should shift your focus in an entirely new direction filled with calmness, possibilities, patience, self-love, love, and understanding. This is one reason it has gained popularity in recent years!

The practice requires complete tranquillity from you, as well as excellent attention. You should always focus on how you twist your body, the openness of your chest, your arm position, and of course, breathing. These are the aspects that comprise a successful asana.

In this blog post, we will delve deeper into the subject and talk about the mudras of yoga. Mudra is an ancient word that was coined to represent “attitude.” and the people who performed yoga in the past decided to incorporate mudras into the practice. The term explains a posture through which your energy flows and connects your force with the force of the universe.

You can incorporate these into any yoga position since it is reflected by a simple hand gesture. If you want to learn how to add them to your everyday practice, here, we provide you with the 5 mudras of yoga that you should know and use.

1. Jnana/Gyan Mudra

Also known as the physic gesture of knowledge, this is considered one of the basic ones you should be aware of. If you want to find a way to increase your knowledge and concentration, then this is one of the mudras that you should try.

Start by sitting in a comfortable pose such as Sukhasana. Take both of your index fingers and fold them so they can touch the tips of your thumbs. Make sure the rest of the fingers are straightened out and slightly apart. Now, take your hands, place the palms on your knees facing down, and relax the arms and the hands. Take a few deep breaths and relax in this pose. The breathing cycles are important for the mudras of yoga.

2. Chinmaya Mudra

One of the 5 mudras of yoga is the Chinmaya, which is very important because it is the mudra of awareness. Yogis tend to practice it more often since it helps them become more aware of themselves, their surroundings, what is happening in their life and how to take the next step. If you want to improve your overall mental well-being, you should start practicing this gesture!

First, take your thumb and your forefinger and form a ring, and do the same with the other hand. Then, curl the remaining three fingers right into the palm of your hand. Place your palms upwards, place them on your knees, and take a deep breath. Make sure to have long, deep, and controlled breaths. And try focusing on your breathing.

The other positive thing about this mudra is it helps you improve the body's energy flow as well as digestion.

3. Vayu Mudra

Be light to the touch, be light as air – that is the mantra for the Vayu mudra. We love practicing it because it helps you maintain a balanced self throughout the day. In our opinion, it is one of the best 5 mudras of yoga.

It's great because it can help you release all the excess air in the body – so you should be able to relieve yourself if you have been feeling any chest pains due to excess gas.

For this - take your index finger and fold it into your hand. Try holding it down with the help of your thumb. Do the same on both hands. Straighten the rest of your fingers and keep them slightly apart. Place the palms on your knees, facing up. Relax your hands and your arms.

4. Agni Mudra

This is the mudra of yoga that will help you balance the body's fire element. So, if you feel something is out of balance, this can help you get through it. The Agni mudra is an incredible tool for those who want to fight obesity, increase their metabolism, and reduce their abdominal fat.

To do it - fold your ring finger into your palm and press the thumb lightly upon the second phalanx bone. Straighten the remaining fingers, keeping them slightly apart from each other. Place the palms on your knees, facing up. Relax.

Do this mudra only in the morning, on an empty stomach. And avoid this gesture if you are dealing with acidity in the stomach or indigestion.

5. Varun Mudra

The final one of the 5 mudras of yoga is this one, which balances the water in the body. If you want to improve your overall appearance and glow, try this mudra. Because it can make your skin glow and keep you looking hydrated. It can even relieve any muscle tension issues.

To practice the Varun - touch the tip of your little finger and the thumb. Keep the rest of the fingers straight, relaxed, and slightly apart. Place the palms on your knees, facing up, and relax your hands and arms.

It can also prevent pimples and infections since it activates the flow of fluids in the body.

It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or at an advanced level in yoga; there is a mudra for every ability! We think these 5 mudras of yoga are an integral tool for good health. Each one will stimulate a different part of the body and will improve your energy and overall mood! So, start practicing them today and notice the results – you will be amazed by how good they can make you feel.

We hope this blog post has helped you learn more about this fascinating topic! If you start practicing the above gestures on your own and feel like you need some help, then, please get in touch. Our courses are a great way to educate yourself and practice mindfulness at the same time. We are happy to provide you with the proper training, experiences, and courses to help you learn more about yoga, wellness, and meditation – starting today!

Hello Moonbeams!!!

The New Year is ushered in with this final full moon before Samhain. Known as the Hunter’s Moon (or Blood Moon) it will peak at 4:55 pm EST/1:55 pm PST ON October 9th. What better time to light a fire and change the future, huh?

There are real problems that are calling for our attention right now, personally and collectively and this lunar cycle is all about having the courage to release the past and claim who you truly are. Women are the vessels for Lunar Energy, receiving and directing the magical force as their biology is more attuned to the Moon's Cycles than a man. 

Full Moons always bring lots of energy and are associated endings, but being in Aries, the first sign of the zodiac, it will also carry the energy of new beginnings. Mars rules Aries so expect some intensity as your warrior side emerges motivating you to take action...It promises to be a month of endings and beginnings. And hang on all you moon lovers...eclipse season is on its way! We’ve got a solar eclipse coming up on October 25th, followed by a total lunar eclipse happening on November 7-8. Two powerful events leading to the night when the veil between worlds will be at its thinnest.

 To Honor this full moon...

• Shadow work: As the Wheel of the Year turns inward towards the dark months, now is the time to turn to the Divine Feminine energy within us to release all that no longer serves...to clear baggage from the past that we have been holding on to and rid our mind and lives of negativity and fear.
• Brew a batch of Blood Moon tea this October full moon to honor the Samhain lunar cycle. Brewed with hibiscus flowers, rose, cinnamon and orange peel, this garnet-colored, dramatic-looking tea makes a perfect drink to serve. Ingredients: 4 parts dried Hibiscus, 3 parts fresh orange peel, 2 parts dried tea roses, 2 parts star anise and 1 cinnamon stick. Steep in hot water and enjoy
• Making Moon Water-on the night of the full moon, place a clear quartz crystal in a jar of purified water. (Can also make by the gallon). Place the vessel outside in a clear moonlit spot, making sure jar is covered. When morning arrives, your water will be charged with lunar energy. Drink a bit every morning for body, mind & soul balance.

Grounding is an excellent way to put all your bad memories, experiences, and thoughts behind you. Any challenging emotions you might be faced with or even any frightening flashbacks you confront can be removed with the assistance of grounding techniques.

ARE THERE ANY GROUNDING TECHNIQUES?

Distracting yourself from anxious feelings is something we all must do from time to time. This is how we are able to focus more on the present moment and enjoy it. If you are interested in what these techniques can do for you, then continue reading this detailed blog post. Make no mistake; the benefits are plenty. The space you will be able to create will start shielding you from anxiety, depression, bad mood, PTSD, and stress and will improve your overall well-being.

SOME OF THE BEST PSYCHOLOGICAL GROUNDING TECHNIQUES

If you feel like you are in distress, many grounding techniques can provide you with relaxation and calmness. Let’s take a look at some of them.

1. Place your hands under water – this is an excellent technique where you need to focus on your hands. Focus on the water they are in and notice how it feels on your fingertips, your skin, your palms, and even on the back of your hands. Start doing this with warm water, and then switch to cold. Then, try reverse – cold water first, warm second. Do you start to notice how it feels on your skin?
2. Focus on items that surround you – this means you should start picking them up or at least touching them. Notice their texture, their weight, and their temperature. Focus on each item. Also, think in color. When you see an object and touch it, challenge yourself to think of a more specific color name instead of just naming it red, green, or blue. Instead, try navy, emerald, and crimson.
3. Inhale and exhale –breathing is one of the most important grounding techniques that can lead you to relaxation. Deeply inhale, then exhale. If it will help your process, you can breathe in each time you take a breath, and breathe out each time you release the air. Make sure to feel each breath as it enters and exits your body.
4. Foods are great – it doesn’t even have to be food, it can be a small sip of a beverage – anything that can make your body feel another sensation than the distress you are currently in. Take a small taste and savor it. Acknowledge all the notes and sub notes of the bite or sip and focus on that.
5. Walk around – there is nothing more relaxing than the feeling of walking in nature. If you start feeling like you need a little bit of time out, then it is time to take a walk. Nature is always a nice place to gather your feelings and thoughts. Focus on each step you are making and even count the steps if you feel like you need to. Try maintaining a rhythm and focus on it too. If everything else fails, you can always focus on your feet. How does it feel when your feet touch the ground? Can you describe that feeling?
6. Hold a piece of ice – even though this is pretty straightforward, it is an excellent technique that will lead you to relaxation. Take a piece of ice and hold it in your hands. Can you describe what it feels like? Do you notice it slowly melting in your palms? How does the sensation last on your palms once the ice has melted away?
7. Listen to everything around you – take a deep breath and start grounding yourself by focusing on all the noises that surround you. Whether it is the ticking of a clock, cars going up and down a road, the sound of the TV, the air conditioner, maybe birds, dogs, cats, people chatting, or telephones ringing. Let yourself be absorbed by the sound around you, and acknowledge where you are.
8. Try the 12345 method – this is one of the best grounding techniques there are. You start by working your way up from five to one, but the main goal is to notice things around you. Start with five things you can hear. Continue with four things you can see. Then, three things you can touch. Two things you can smell. And finally, one thing you can taste. In this exercise, it is important to recognize everything around you. It is the only way to complete the exercise completely and without any obstacles.
9. Feel the body – the body is an amazing thing, but sometimes we need to be reminded of it. You should be able to do this either sitting or standing. You need to focus on your entire body, starting from head to toe, or the other way around. Start noticing your hair that falls on your shoulders or your forehead, around the face. Also, start noticing the shirt that you are wearing, and its weight. Do you feel it on your shoulders and body? Notice your arms and hands. How does your heartbeat sound? Is it slow or is it fast? Think about your stomach and how that makes you feel. Are you full or are you hungry? Finally, think about your feet too. Are they firm on the ground? Have you crossed your legs? Focusing on everything, your fingers and toes included will give you some grounding space and can help you get back to normal.

If you are unsure of when to use the grounding techniques, just remember that this is something you should have handy in those cases of severe distress. Give yourself the time every day to check in on yourself and see how you are doing. If you feel like you need to practice to achieve a complete state of relaxation, then so be it!

Consider these the most powerful tools in your fight against distressing thoughts. If you are having trouble with using any of these tools, it is more than okay to contact a professional who would be able to help you with that. The most important thing to remember is that you can ground yourself whenever you start feeling uncomfortable.