Three Grounding Exercises for the Season

December is often regarded as the peak of the holiday season. And while this time of year is commonly associated with time off work, it often turns out to be full – sometimes busy, sometimes heavy, and for some, even overwhelming. Whether it’s navigating the expectations of the season, tending to relationships and family dynamics, managing a packed calendar, or moving through quieter moments that carry a bit more weight, December can stir a wide range of emotions.

There is no single “right” way to experience this season. Joy and grief can exist side by side. Gratitude and exhaustion can arrive together. When emotions overlap and days feel full, it’s easy to become disconnected from ourselves – moving from one moment to the next without much space to pause or breathe.

This is where grounding can be especially supportive. During seasons like this, grounding doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. Often, it begins with small, intentional pauses – simple practices that help us come back to ourselves in the midst of everything else. With that in mind, we’d like to offer a few gentle grounding exercises you can return to throughout this holiday season and beyond.

Three Easy Grounding Exercises for the Season

These practices are meant to be flexible and supportive. You can move through them at your own pace, choosing what feels most helpful in the moment.

1. The Standing Pause
   Stand with your feet planted firmly on the ground. Notice the support beneath you. Take three slow breaths, allowing your exhale to be slightly longer than your inhale. Let your shoulders soften. Even a brief pause can help create a sense of steadiness and presence.
2. Softening the Gaze
   Soften your eyes and widen your field of vision. Rather than focusing on one thing, gently notice light, color, and movement around you. There’s no need to name or evaluate anything – simply allowing yourself to notice can invite a sense of ease.
3. Breathing With the Body
   Place one hand on your chest and one on your belly. Breathe slowly, noticing the rise and fall beneath your hands. Imagine your breath moving through your body, offering support and grounding with each inhale and exhale.

These moments of grounding aren’t about doing something perfectly or changing how you feel. They are small invitations to slow down, soften, and meet yourself with care.

This season, may you allow yourself moments of steadiness and rest – gentle pauses that help you feel supported, present, and more at home within yourself.