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Grounding Techniques That Actually Work

Most grounding advice doesn't work in real anxiety. These techniques are designed for when you're actually spiraling.

You've tried grounding before, but:

  • Counting backwards from 100 doesn't stop panic
  • The 5-4-3-2-1 technique feels too slow when you're spiraling
  • You can't focus on naming objects when your heart is racing
  • Deep breathing makes anxiety worse, not better
  • You need something that works RIGHT NOW, not in 10 minutes

Why Most Grounding Techniques Fail

Most grounding techniques assume you're mildly anxious. But when you're in full panic, you can't follow complex instructions or 'just breathe slowly.'

Grounding that actually works during high anxiety is physical, immediate, and doesn't require calm focus. It uses your body to interrupt the nervous system spiral.

The goal isn't to feel calm. It's to give your nervous system a circuit-breaker so the spiral stops escalating.

Grounding That Works During Real Anxiety

The Physical Interrupt

  1. 1Cold water: Run cold water over your wrists for 30 seconds
  2. 2Strong sensation: Squeeze an ice cube or snap a rubber band on your wrist
  3. 3Movement: Jump up and down or shake your whole body for 30 seconds
  4. 4Pressure: Push your palms hard against a wall or press your feet into the floor
  5. 5Name what you see: Say out loud one thing you see in front of you

Build Grounding into Your Life

Grounding works best when it's practiced before panic, not just during it. Regular grounding builds nervous system resilience.

Mind Your Now helps you integrate grounding throughout your day - preventing spirals before they start.

Kaia learns which grounding techniques work best for you and reminds you to use them early.

  • Library of grounding techniques for different situations
  • Practice before panic to build nervous system resilience
  • AI learns what works for you personally
  • Quick access when you need it most

Start Building Calm

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