Another form of self-care is Grounding, bringing you back to the present moment. It is a practice that can help you pull away from unwanted memories, flashbacks, and negative or challenging emotions. It may help distract you from what you’re experiencing and help you refocus on what’s happening in the present moment. You can use Grounding techniques to help create space from distressing feelings in nearly any situation, but they’re especially helpful if you’re dealing with heightened emotions, anxiety or anything traumatic that comes up for you. There are many techniques that use your five senses or tangible objects – things you can touch – to help you move through distress. (1) Paraphrased from Healthline’s article on Grounding Techniques as linked below.
If you find yourself overwhelmed while reading this book, please take care of yourself and use these techniques. It is very important to me that you take care of yourself. You can search on the internet for suggestions, or here is a great article with 30 different Grounding techniques.
https://www.healthline.com/health/grounding-techniques
This is not a lighthearted book. It is very raw, real, and vulnerable. It expresses the feelings, longings, thoughts and emotions that are buried very deep within my heart, soul and mind. Please be aware, this book is not meant for children, or even teenagers! There are many times when it gets very dark, so be warned. If you need emotional support, or you don’t feel safe, I have listed resources below, or contact your therapist or a close trusted friend. There is help out there.