Simple Stress-Reducing Technique
ByIn a seminar for caregivers of people with dementia, I learned of a new (to me) technique that switches the nervous system to the parasympathetic (rest and digest) mode.
I’m thinking it would probably be especially helpful for those of us who are Highly Sensitive. (Take the quiz if you’re not sure you are.)
It’s called 5-4-3-2-1 and it only takes a couple of minutes.
When you feel yourself stressed or overwhelmed, stop, notice, and name (actually say the words out loud):
- 5 things you can see.
- 4 things you can feel.
- 3 things you can hear.
- 2 things you can smell.
- 1 thing you can taste.
This will ground you in the present and send your nervous system the signal that you are safe. It will turn off stress and allow healing to happen.
You can also do this with children, or your partner, or a friend who is in distress.
And if you’d like more help in ways to alleviate stress so that you can heal, check out the free resources and coaching at HealingCodesCoaching.com.
