The 'Five Senses Breath' Technique

The five senses breath technique, also known as a grounding exercise, involves focusing on each of your five senses to bring you into the present moment and reduce anxiety. It's a simple mindfulness practice that can be done anywhere, anytime. 

Here's how it works...

Find a comfortable position: You can sit or stand with a tall posture.
Focus on your breath: Take a few slow, deep breaths, noticing the sensation of the air entering and leaving your body.

Engage your senses...

Sight: Look around and notice five things you can see, paying attention to their colours, shapes, and textures.
Touch: Notice four things you can feel, focusing on their temperature, texture, and weight.
Sound: Listen for three things you can hear, and try to identify where they're coming from and what they sound like.
Smell: Notice two things you can smell, breathing in deeply to enhance the experience.
Taste: Notice one thing you can taste, whether it's a lingering taste or something you're currently eating or drinking.

Return to your breath...

After engaging with each sense, return to your breath for a moment before moving on to the next sense. If your mind wanders, gently redirect your attention back to your senses.
This technique can be helpful for managing stress, anxiety, and panic attacks, by bringing your awareness to the present moment and away from racing thoughts.