Anxiety is no respecter of persons—it sneaks up and tries to take over. Maybe someone isn’t texting you back, and your mind starts creating its own narrative. Maybe you’re stressing about guests who don’t get along who are coming in for the holidays. Maybe you’re waiting to hear back from a job interview and refreshing your email like it owes you money. And then you add holiday pressures on top of all that? Whew. When anxiety hits, it feels like your mind is racing ahead, imagining every possible “what if” scenario at lightning speed.
Calming my mind sometimes feels like trying to tame a wild beast.
One strategy I've found really helpful is this simple Sensory Reset. As a sensory girl, I absolutely love this one!
When anxiety hits, pause and take a moment to notice:
- 5 things you can see: See them. Name them.
- 4 things you can touch: See them. Touch them.
- 3 things you can hear: Really listen. Hear each of them.
- 2 things you can smell: Smell them. Take it in.
- 1 thing you can taste: Savor it. (You know my go-to is an Oreo—because duh! If nothing else, I do the strategy for the end prize! Lol.)
But for real...this practice shifts your attention away from the spiral of "what might happen" and all the "what ifs," gently pulling you back into the present moment. It's a small but powerful reminder that right now, in this moment, you are safe.
Think of it as a mini reset for your mind.
Grounding. Calming. Easily accessible. Surprisingly effective.
Shoot, I've used it twice this week already, and it's only Wednesday!
Try it yourself next time anxiety hits. Your senses (and your mind) will thank you!
