Grounded

Feeling grounded? What does that actually mean and how can that help our wellbeing? 

In wellbeing terms, when we think of a grounded person, we tend to think of someone who has their priorities in order and has physical, mental and emotional good health. Good life choices are made in the pursuit of wellness, which makes grounding a proactive state of being and something we can all work towards.

Not only can being grounded help us to be more resilient and navigate life’s sometimes choppy waters but it can also bring about a sense of contentment and calm.

 It is so much more, than what we are commonly led to believe. Often, we think of it in the very literal sense, as, for example, walking barefoot to connect to the ground. And whilst this can be a very effective grounding technique (and one I practise myself) there are many more ways that we can become grounded.

Following are five practices that you can begin to help in stress reduction.

 

Five ways to ground yourself

 

1. Visualisation. This is a lovely technique that a wonderful yoga teacher once taught me. Simply stand with your weight evenly distributed on each foot, then close your eyes. Try and imagine that you have roots attached to your feet that are holding you in place, deeply rooted to the ground. This can mentally help you feel supported and in very real physical terms, help you to stabilize any wobbles!

2. Gratitude. So often, we are too busy to smell the roses (or the coffee!) Take a moment at the end of each day to note down three things that you are grateful for. It may be as simple as a great cuppa, or a kind word from a stranger. Writing it down can help to foster a positive mindset.

3. Use your senses. Reach out and touch a physical object. It may be the back of a chair or a pen you are holding. Notice how it feels, feel it beneath your hands. Be present. This can be soothing and allow you to be in the moment.

4. Breathe. Maybe an obvious one, but it is so rare that we actually do it! Take three long deep breaths, in and out. Try for a count of four. This should help to calm down the nervous system.

5. Write it down. Document your thoughts and feelings. Seeing things in black and white can help you to see things from a different perspective when reading it back to yourself.

 

How does grounding carry through into the workplace?

 

If your employees are grounded, they are likely to deal better with conflict and, like the tree, appear more stable, even in high pressured situations. Approachability can be another benefit to a grounded employee. They are likely to be aware of their surroundings and have a calm demeanour, which is great for good team dynamics. Focus is another wonderful benefit making it easier to carry out tasks and keep practicalities and responsibilities in mind.

 If workplaces pay attention to the wellbeing of their teams, through training and support healthy behaviours, then workplaces can become more productive, happier and healthier places to be in.

  

“Be like a tree. Stay grounded. Connect with your roots. Turn over a new leaf. Bend before you break. Enjoy your unique natural beauty. Keep growing.”

-Joanne Raptis