If you are someone who struggles with Anxiety, your mind may often be all over the place. You are thinking about the past, or ruminating over a previous situation over and over again. Or maybe you are constantly worried about things that might happen in the future.
Anxiety can also create a sort of disconnect from your mind and body, and it’s difficult to stay in the present.
As a Bethesda Anxiety Therapy practice, we see this often in our clients. One thing we know to be helpful is the practice of Mindfulness. This allows us to get grounded, slow down our anxious mind a bit, and bring ourselves back to the present moment.
A Simple Mindfulness Exercise to Ease Anxiety we like to teach as Bethesda Anxiety Therapists uses the five senses.
The next time you are struggling to stay in the moment, or your anxious thoughts have you spiraling, take a moment to practice this simple mindfulness exercise:
Name 5 Colors You Can See
Make sure you are looking around the room and seeing them.
Name 4 Things You Can Hear
The birds chirping outside, the clicking of your coworkers keyboard.
Name 3 Things You Can Taste
Take a sip of your coffee, tea or water. Stick a mint in your mouth or a piece of chocolate.
Name 2 Things You Can Feel
Actually feel the material, whether it’s a soft blanket in your lap, or the warmth of your cup of coffee.
Name 1 Thing You Can Smell.
It could be the fresh flowers on your table or the hint of your perfume still lingering.
By using your five senses, you are able to slow down your mind, get grounded, and really be in the present moment. This can be helpful for those who experience anxiety. If you would like to learn more or get support, please reach out to our Bethesda Anxiety Therapists today.
