The Women Of Friends: Past and Present

3 Grounding Techniques to Help Calm Your Nervous System

Deep breathing

When stressors overload our nervous system, grounding techniques can be invaluable tools for bringing us back to a state of calm and presence. They are simple practices that can help reduce anxiety and enhance your connection to the present moment. Here are three effective grounding techniques to try. 

The 5-4-3-2-1 Sensory Awareness Exercise

The 5-4-3-2-1 technique is a grounding method that utilizes all five senses to anchor you in the present. The process is simple: all you need to do is identify five things you can see, four you can feel, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste. This exercise shifts your focus from anxiety to your immediate surroundings, calming the nervous system.

Deep Breathing

Deep breathing helps by activating your body’s parasympathetic nervous system, which induces a state of calm. Take a slow, deep breath in through your nose. Hold your breath for a moment. Exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat this process for a few minutes, focusing solely on your breathing.

Mindful Walking

Lastly, mindful walking combines physical activity with mindfulness, grounding you through the act of walking and the awareness of your environment. As you walk, expand your awareness to include the sounds around you, the temperature of the air, and the sights you pass. It’s simple and effective. 

3 Ways to Upcycle Old Clothes

Denim jacket

Do you have a dress that you love that no longer fits you? How about a shirt with a rip in it? Or a pile of pants you no longer wear? Save your clothes from going in the trash by redesigning them in a new way. Learn how to breathe new life into your old favorites with these upcycling ideas.

Elevated Denim Jacket

Let’s start with that dress that is just not the right size. You can save the gorgeous print by trimming a section of the dress and sewing it to the back of a denim jacket. Now you have a fun and funky jacket bursting with personality. Feel free to experiment with spare material by adding it to the pockets, collar, or wherever else you like.

Shirt Combo

Ripped shirts? Have a go at sewing them together to create a new and completely one-of-a-kind piece. Try to stick to similar colors but don’t be afraid to mix different patterns.

Recycled Denim Bag

Jeans you don’t wear? Cut strips out of them and join them together to make a denim bag made up of different shades. Cut off a pocket and add it to the front for added storage.