How to Stay Grounded: Simple Practices for Daily Emotional Health
In today's world, the constant buzz of news, the relentless pressure of work, and the never-ending demands of daily life can leave us feeling like we're perpetually on the edge of burnout. It's as if the world is spinning faster, and we're struggling to keep up.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and unsure about how to find calm in the chaos, you're not alone. I recently had a conversation on The Healing Catalyst podcast with Dr. Tanmeet Sethi about strategies that can help you find ease and balance to transform the overwhelm into an opportunity for growth and well-being.
Discover the Power of Pause
One of the key strategies we discuss is the importance of pausing and noticing our emotional states. This simple yet powerful practice involves stepping back to observe our feelings without judgment. By recognizing stress signals early, we can prevent ourselves from spiraling into deeper anxiety or overwhelm.
Dr. Tanmeet highlights breathwork as an effective tool to regulate the nervous system. She describes the practice of deep belly breathing to activate the diaphragm and the vagus nerve to shift us into the parasympathetic nervous system. This can help calm the mind and body, making it easier to approach challenges with clarity.
I also recommend trying one of my favorite breathing techniques, a 3-step practice designed to help you calm down when you’re overwhelmed.
Create Rituals for Stability
In a world filled with uncertainty, establishing daily rituals can provide a sense of stability and certainty. Whether it's a morning routine that includes meditation and coffee or setting specific times to disconnect from digital devices, these rituals can anchor us throughout the day, making it easier to handle stress and anxiety.
We also discuss the importance of creating spaces and practices that promote emotional health. This might include setting boundaries around media consumption or ensuring that there are clear lines of communication with loved ones about what topics are open for discussion, especially in stressful times.
Prioritize Sleep
Sleep is crucial for mental health. A lack of sleep can heighten emotional reactivity and diminish our ability to handle stress. Establishing boundaries around potential stressors can also help maintain a healthier mental state, allowing us to engage more meaningfully and with less stress in our daily interactions. If you’re looking to improve your sleep, Dr. Sethi and I recently talked about how to revamp your nighttime routines as well.
By incorporating practices like pausing to notice your emotional state, establishing nurturing rituals, and prioritizing sleep, you can find a path to greater ease and emotional resilience in your everyday life.
Connect With Dr. Tanmeet Sethi:
Website: tanmeetsethimd.com
Book: Joy Is My Justice
Instagram: @tanmeetsethimd
Quiz: Unlock your Joy Code
Listen: Ep. 122. Ignite: Transformative Sleep Habits for Mind and Body with Dr. Avanti & Dr. Tanmeet
I hope these strategies foster your growth and a supportive community that thrives on empathy and understanding.
Be well,
Avanti Kumar-Singh, MD
P.S. Did you know that your gut microbiome has a major impact on your mental health? Explore 4 ways you can change your approach to your dinner plate to feel better.
