Best Herbs For Grounding

When we feel overwhelmed, anxious or stressed, it's easy to get caught up in our thoughts and emotions, which can make us feel ungrounded and disconnected from the present moment. Grounding techniques are a helpful tool to bring us back into the present and reduce feelings of anxiety or stress. First let's talk about the different herbs that can be helpful for this type of practice, and then we'll show you some of the best ways to ground yourself. 

What is Grounding?

Grounding refers to a psychological technique that aims to bring an individual's attention and focus to the present moment. It is commonly used in therapeutic settings, particularly in the treatment of anxiety and mental health management. The goal of grounding is to help individuals feel more connected to reality, their surroundings, and their own bodies, as opposed to getting lost in distressing thoughts, memories, or emotions. It is often practiced when a person is feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or dissociated. Grounding techniques can be used as part of a self-help strategy or as guided exercises led by a therapist. They are intended to help individuals manage anxiety, stress, flashbacks, or dissociation by redirecting their attention to the present moment and fostering a sense of stability. It can be a powerful medicine and the perfect way to feel more present in your life. 

Best Herbs For Grounding

There are an array of herbs that are great to supplement these specific types of techniques. These herbal superstars are in our Elixirs and meant to help your body function better in various ways. They all have stress-relieving properties and medicinal uses that can help you create a cornerstone of optimal health and self love. 

Ashwagandha

The medicinal benefits of this adaptogenic herb have been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. It is considered a powerful adaptogen, meaning it helps the body to better cope with stress. Ashwagandha has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system and can help reduce anxiety and stress. The herb is believed to work by regulating the body's production of cortisol, a hormone released in response to stress. Ashwagandha is available in capsule, powder or tincture form and can be taken daily to support overall wellbeing. 

Chamomile

This is a gentle and beautiful herb that is often used to promote relaxation and reduce feelings of mental fog and anxiety. It is commonly consumed as a tea, but can also be taken as a capsule or used in aromatherapy to promote a sense of calm. Chamomile contains compounds called apigenin and luteolin, which are believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system. The herb is also rich in antioxidants, which help to reduce inflammation and promote overall health.

Lavender

Lavender is a popular herb known for its calming and soothing properties. It can be used in aromatherapy or added to bathwater to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Lavender flowers contain compounds called terpenes, which have been shown to have a calming effect on the immune system. The herb is also believed to promote sleep and reduce feelings of anxiety. Lavender is available in capsule or tincture form for internal use. 

Valerian

Valerian is a powerful herb that has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and improve sleep. It can be taken as a capsule, tincture or tea to help calm the nervous system and reduce feelings of anxiety. Valerian contains compounds called valerenic acid and valeranone, which have a sedative effect on the body. The herb is also believed to help regulate the body's production of GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. 

Lemon Balm

This wonderful herb that has a grounding effect on the nervous system. It can be enjoyed as a tea, used in aromatherapy or taken as a capsule or tincture to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Lemon balm contains compounds called terpenes, which are believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system. The herb is also rich in antioxidants, which are the best option to reduce inflammation and promote overall health.

Just remember: When using herbs to support grounding techniques, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any new supplement regimen. This is especially important if you are taking any medications that could have side effects or have underlying health conditions. Additionally, it's important to remember that herbal remedies are not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. However, incorporating herbs into a grounding practice can be a helpful tool and a different way to support overall wellness and reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. 

Using Herbal Tea, Moon Milks, and Herbal Lattes for Grounding

Drinking a beverage is a simple and effective grounding technique that can help promote relaxation and reduce feelings of anxiety or stress. The act of preparing and drinking something we love encourages us to slow down and be present in the moment, which can be especially helpful during times of overwhelm or unease. Additionally, certain types of tea, such as chamomile or lavender, contain compounds that have a calming effect on the nervous system and can help promote a sense of calm. Incorporating a cup of tea into your daily routine can be a helpful way to support your overall well-being and stress management. This is one of the basic missions here at Lunar Herbals, to help you into mindful routines and better health!

Drinking tea can be a simple and effective grounding technique. Here's why: 

Mindful Practice

Preparing and drinking tea can be a mindful practice that gives you a little help being in the present moment. By focusing on the process of brewing a tea bag and sipping tea, you can shift your attention away from anxious or stressful thoughts.

Sensory Experience

Tea can engage the senses, with its aroma, flavor, and warmth. Engaging in sensory experiences can be grounding because it helps to anchor you in the present moment.

Ritualistic

Drinking tea can be a ritualistic practice that provides a sense of structure and routine. This can be especially helpful if you're feeling overwhelmed or uncertain.

Calming Properties

Certain teas, such as chamomile or lavender, have calming properties that can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

When using tea as a grounding technique, it's important to approach it with intentionality. Take time to select a tea that you enjoy and find calming, and prepare it in a way that feels nurturing and soothing to you. Allow yourself to fully engage in the sensory experience of drinking tea, and be present with your thoughts and feelings as they arise. With our Moon Milk Elixirs, we have made different types for different specific uses to make these types of grounding techniques simple for you. For example, our Elixir of Sleep is can be a beautiful bedtime ritual to ground you into relaxation and mindfulness before you fall asleep.  

Our favorite grounding technique is to have a soothing beverage, but here are a few other techniques that can be helpful for managing mental health as well. 

5-4-3-2-1 Technique

Name five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. This technique can help to ground you in the present moment and shift your focus away from anxious or distressing thoughts.

Deep Breathing

Take a few slow, deep breaths, focusing on the sensation of the breath moving in and out of your body. This can help to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety in your energy field. 

Progressive Muscle Relaxation

Starting at your toes and working your way up to your head, tense and relax each muscle group in your body. This can help to release physical tension and promote relaxation. 

Mindfulness Meditation

Focus your attention on the present moment, observing your thoughts and feelings without judgment. This can help to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm. 

Grounding Objects

Keep a small object, like a stone or a keychain, in your pocket or bag. When you feel anxious or overwhelmed, hold the object and focus on its texture, weight, and temperature. This can help to anchor you in the present moment and provide a sense of comfort.

It's important to remember that everyone's experience with mental health is unique, so what works for one person may not work for another. It may take some trial and error to find grounding techniques that work well for you. In addition to practices such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and visualization, we hope that you try herbal medicine to support your grounding techniques and mental health. Pick up any of our delicious Elixir mixes today and try incorporating them into your routines and see if you feel more grounded like we do!