TIPS AND TRICKS

Need to Calm Down? Ground Yourself With Your Five Senses
Using your five senses is another simple-but-impactful way to remind your nervous system that, in spite of the surrounding stressors, your body doesn’t need to fire on all cylinders. Molly Dutter-Ansari, Ph.D., says engaging each of your five senses can bring your body back to the present moment, where it’s easier to see reality for what it is (and make logical decisions instead of freaking out).

Dutter-Ansari suggests a simple exercise where you name one thing you can see, smell, touch, taste, and hear. “Take a second or two and engage each sense,” she says. While you’re at it, take a few deep breaths. As you become more aware of your surroundings, your body should get the message that the situation’s not as dire as you thought — and you’ll find it easier to talk yourself out of the stress.