Grounding techniques are exercises that may help you refocus on the present moment to distract yourself from anxious feelings.

When people are anxious, they tend to take rapid, shallow breaths that come directly from the chest. This type of breathing causes an upset in the body's oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, resulting in increased heart rate, dizziness, muscle tension, and other physical sensations. Deep breathing, on the other hand, helps to regulate the heartbeat, increase blood flow, and aid in digestion.

When we are stressed or upset, our body naturally goes into a mode that causes our muscles to tighten. Practicing progressive muscle relaxation on a regular basis helps individuals learn to relax their bodies so that they break the cycle of tension in their muscles and are better able to manage their stress reactions when something difficult arises.

Create a quiet, safe space in your home or classroom where kids can go to have alone time and calm down. This space it not designed for a time-out or a punishment. It simply provides kids a safe space to regain their composure. Calm-down corners should include calming activities for kids. These may include: -Art or drawing tools like coloring books, crayons, and Etch-a-Sketches -Sensory tools like weighted blankets or cushions and headphones -Fidget objects like pop-its, silly putty, and puzzles -Visual stimulation like kaleidoscopes, snow globes, or calm-down jars -Books It can be helpful to display visuals that guide children through deep breathing and grounding exercises.