22 Nov 5-4-3-2-1
This week I want to give you a little technique that’s been working for me when I get overwhelmed or feel like I’m chasing my tail. Here’s how it works:
First, notice that you’re going into the crazy zone, whether it’s rushrushrush mode or that you’re about to be snarky towards your family or whatever.
Second, STOP.
Third, do 5-4-3-2-1.
Third, do 5-4-3-2-1.
5 – Look around and name 5 things you can see. Say the words to yourself. Bonus: twist your body to look behind you.
4 – Open your ears, listen and name 4 things you can hear. Again, use words in your head.
3 – Feel your clothes, the temperature, where your hands are, etc. Name 3 things you can feel.
2 – Sniff the air. Name 2 things you can smell.
1 – Notice the taste in your mouth. Name it.
Fourth, resume your life.
There’s nothing special about the order, you can do any sense with any number of items. Sometimes I forget a sense and I have to think very hard to remember the missing one. It’s hardest for me to smell and taste, but I persevere.
It’s particularly handy that you can do this technique in front of someone and they’d never know.
I use it often; see what you think.
Image by Vie Studio from Pexels