The 5-4-3-2-1 Technique

Hey all!

So, sparking an email I just send to one of our crew, I wanted to share this with all of you. I know a few of you have expressed not feeling like you are taking on the mental health or meditation aspects of what FIT is about, and I completely understand how it can be daunting or something we don’t think to incorporate on a day-to-day (remember our chat about habits - it takes 21 days to form them!).

This is a technique you can use to check-in mentally and ground down exactly where you are - it doesn’t matter if you take the time to do it mid-day at work, on a hike, in the gym or sitting on your couch.

• Take the time to take a few deep breaths - in through the nose and out through the mouth. Make your exhales longer than your inhales, even if it is just slightly so.

• Now, take a gentle look around you and pick out 5 things you can see.

• Then, four things you can touch.

• Now, three things you can hear.

• Two things you can smell.

• And finally, one thing you can taste.

• Now, return to your breath, taking one large inhale and the longest exhale you can manage, and if you have time, sit with yourself for a moment with your eyes relaxed or closed.

You can use this technique any time you aren’t feeling connected to your body or grounded in your space. It has been proven to reduce anxiety and calm and busy mind!