Faithbase

Mental Health Grounding Tools that Don't Compromise the Christian Faith

Grounding tools with Christian counselor Elias DaHora and Christian Mental Health Therapist Jackie DaHora Grounding techniques are strategies used to help individuals stay connected to the present moment, especially during times of stress or emotional upheaval. When selecting grounding techniques that align with Biblical truths, it's important to choose methods that encourage mindfulness, presence, and reliance on God, while avoiding practices that may conflict with Christian beliefs. Here are five such techniques: Prayer-Focused Breathing: Begin by finding a quiet place to sit or stand comfortably. Focus on your breath, taking slow, deep breaths. With each inhale, silently say a part of a simple prayer or scripture, such as "The Lord is my shepherd" (Psalm 23:1). With each exhale, complete the prayer or verse, such as "I shall not want." This combines the calming effect of deep breathing with the focus of prayer towards God. Scripture Memorization: Choose a comforting and relevant scripture verse. Memorize this verse so that you can recall it during stressful times. When feeling overwhelmed, silently or audibly recite this verse to yourself. This practice helps center your thoughts on Biblical truths and God’s promises. Creation Mindfulness Walks: Take a walk outside, ideally in a natural setting like a park or near trees. Observe the beauty of creation around you, noting the colors, sounds, and smells. Reflect on verses that speak of God’s creation, like Psalm 19:1 or Romans 1:20. This technique helps to ground you in the present moment and fosters a sense of gratitude and awe for God’s creation. Gratitude Journaling with a Biblical Focus: Keep a daily journal where you write down things you are thankful for. Include blessings, lessons learned, or ways you’ve seen God work in your life. Reflect on scriptures that encourage gratitude, such as 1 Thessalonians 5:18. This practice encourages a positive mindset and helps to focus on God’s provision and faithfulness. Musical Praise and Worship: Listen to or sing hymns and worship songs that uplift and comfort you. Focus on the lyrics, which often contain Biblical truths and encouragements. Use this time as an opportunity to praise and connect with God, turning your focus away from stressors. Music can be a powerful tool for emotional regulation and connection with Christ.