Also known as the 5 senses technique, the 5,4,3,2,1 technique is a grounding technique.

Grounding techniques offer a practical way to pull your focus back from what’s worrying you and return you to the present moment. By shifting your attention from unsettling thoughts back to the present moment, this technique provides quick relief from stress and anxiety.

By engaging multiple senses, requiring you to concentrate on the present environment rather than dwell on thoughts this technique interrupts the fight or flight response, calming the nervous system and reducing feelings of anxiety or stress almost immediately.

The 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 technique is just one tool you can rely on if you are experiencing high levels of distress. If you are dealing with high levels of stress or anxiety, and you feel you might need help now, please head over to the 'get help now'section.