In times of extreme stress, it can feel like things are spiraling out of control and you're unable to make anything work for you. We all go through moments like this, and while some of us are able to let them pass, others may need a helping hand to calm our thoughts. Grounding techniques can help immensely to relieve stress and anxiety, particularly when you feel overwhelmed by those feelings. Grounding techniques are a type of coping strategy that can help you focus on the present moment and calm your mind. They do this by redirecting your attention away from the stressful thoughts or feelings, and towards something that is tangible or sensory in the present moments. Practicing grounding techniques can be particularly helpful for anxiety, panic attacks, flashbacks related to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and dissociation, which is the feeling of being detached from your body or feeling as though you're not in the real world. If you ever find yourself in a state of heightened stress and anxiety, and you're in need of a method to help you calm your thoughts and bring your focus back to what's happening in front of you, you can try one of these grounding techniques. Square Breathing : Focusing on your breathing is a great way to melt away your tension in your body and calm your mind. The 'square breathing' technique involves breathing in deeply while counting slowly, holding your breath for the same count, and slowly breathing out for the same count. Water Technique : The water grounding technique helps by leveraging the sensory nature of water to bring you into the present moment. It also works as an immediate distraction from stress and anxiety. You can practice this technique by, immersing your hands under a gentle stream of warm running water. Allow your awareness to center on the delicate sensation of the water's temperature caressing your palms, fingertips, and the back of your hands. Change the water to cold temperature and once again notice the difference sensations as the water flows over both side of your hands. Lastly, sigh deeply and repeat several times.