Grounding Yourself
Finding Your Ground: A Survivor's Guide to Grounding Yourself
In moments when the world feels like it's spinning out of control, finding a way to ground ourselves can be a beacon of hope in the fog of distress. As survivors of commercial sexual exploitation (CSE), engaging in grounding practices can bring a sense of peace and stability amidst the chaos. Remember, you're not alone, and your feelings are valid. Let's explore together some gentle, empowering ways to reconnect with yourself.
Embrace the Earth: Walking Barefoot
There’s a unique kind of healing that comes from connecting with nature. Walking barefoot allows you to feel the earth beneath you - its solidity, its energy. Whether it's the cool grass, the warm sand, or the soothing mud, each step can be a reminder of your connection to the world. Let every step you take on the earth be a step towards healing.
Breathe Deeply: A Breath of Fresh Air
Breath is life, and sometimes, the simple act of breathing deeply can feel like a lifeline. This practice doesn’t require any special tools or environments – whether you’re at work, on the move, or in the midst of daily tasks. Focus on the sensation of your breath in different parts of your body — the rise and fall of your abdomen, the air flowing in and out of your nostrils. This can be a powerful anchor during turbulent times.
Mindful Presence: The Body Scan
Creating a moment of peace can be as simple as performing a body scan. Try this three-minute body scan:
Sit comfortably, take a deep breath in and out, and close your eyes.
Starting at the top of your head, gently scan down through your body, noticing what feels comfortable and what feels uncomfortable.
Remember, you're not trying to change anything, just observing, and bringing awareness. This practice invites a compassionate acknowledgment of whatever you're feeling, physically and emotionally, without judgment.
Healing Through Words: Journaling
Sometimes, the swirling thoughts and emotions inside us find clarity when given a voice on paper. Journaling offers a private, safe space to express your thoughts and feelings. This act of self-reflection can be a profound step towards understanding and processing your emotions, leading to moments of realization and relief.
The Power of Now: The 5-4-3-2-1 Technique
Grounding can also come from fully immersing yourself in the present moment, using the 5-4-3-2-1 technique. It involves identifying 5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, and 1 thing you can taste. This method gently pulls your focus back to the here and now, helping to calm spiraling thoughts and overwhelming emotions. Pay full attention to your surroundings and the tasks at hand, anchoring yourself firmly in the moment.
At the Organization for Prostitution Survivors (OPS), we recognize the unique journeys of each survivor. In sharing these grounding techniques, we hope to offer tools that can be adapted and personalized to fit your needs and experiences. Your path to healing is yours to walk, but remember, you don't have to walk it alone. For more tools and tips like this, join us every Tuesday from 1-2 pm during our drop-in hours for an empowering session of Movement & Mindfulness!
OPS is here to support you, providing a community of compassion, understanding, and hope. Together, we can find strength in grounding, resilience in recovery, and the power of our collective healing journeys.