People Impacted By Trauma Are-
How can you reduce anxiety from traumatic memories?
Here’s a tool you can try (with sensitivity):
→ The 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique
Let’s see together how it works.
When you feel a little bit anxious, sit down and gently follow these 5 steps:
1. Describe 5 things you can see.
Basically, look around your environment and identify 5 objects.
For example you can see:
→ A pen
→ A plant
→ A book
→ A bottle
→ A computer
You just need to describe their colors and shapes.
You can do it silently or aloud — whichever you prefer.
2. Recognize 4 things you can touch.
For example you can touch:
→ Your desk
→ Your chair
→ Your clothing
→ The floor under your feet
Just focus on the tactile experience of these objects.
3. Name 3 things you can hear.
Just identify 3 different sounds in your environment.
For example you can hear:
→ The heating
→ The computer fan
→ The traffic out there
Just focus on their sounds and name them.
4. Recognize 2 things you can smell.
For example you can smell:
→ The aroma of food
→ The smell of a plant
Just identify and smell them.
5. Focus on 1 thing you can taste.
Take a moment and taste something you have on hand.
For example you can taste:
→ Some food or simply some water
Just pay attention to the taste.
That’s all.
And if you want, you can also add a breathing technique (4-7-8) before or after the technique.
Okay, now your question is:
→ “Why should this exercise work?”
Well, here’s the answer:
→ “Because it forces us to live in the present moment”.
Let’s remember: the more we live in the present, the less anxious we feel.
Our wellbeing lies in the present.