With several stressors constantly disrupting our state of mind, staying grounded and stable is a necessity. Staying grounded keeps us calm and stable, gives us clarity of thought and allows us to make better decisions. Staying grounded also means connecting to the earth, and keeping the earth element within us balanced and activated. Yoga is one of the most impactful activities that help us stay grounded, steady and stable. Yoga activates the root chakra, which is connected to the earth element and is responsible for your sense of safety, security, and stability. When this energy center is stimulated, one feels grounded and centered. Grounding practices are also particularly helpful during the summer and rainy season as they help balance the Vata component in our body. 

Benefits of yoga for grounding 

Reduces stress and anxiety

Yoga plays an integral role in reducing stress and anxiety by activating the parasympathetic nervous system. The practice reduces pain and inflammation, has a healing effect and connects us to the present moment, which helps reduce stress and anxiety. Less stress leads to being calmer and more grounded. 

Improved mindfulness

‍When we are more present and aware of the current moment, our mind wanders less and stays focused on what we are doing. Staying mindful helps us get out of our own heads, allows us to make better decisions and stay connected to ourselves. We are able to break away from negative thought patterns and unstable emotional or mental states. 

Connects us to our deeper self

‍While staying grounded means connecting to the earth, we have to start with connecting to our deeper selves. Through yoga we are able to connect and develop a deeper sense of our real self and our consciousness. With every conscious breath, we can connect more and more to our inner self. 

Keeps us balanced and centered

‍One of the most important aspects of yoga for grounding is staying balanced and centered. Cultivating a strong foundation and connection to the earth induces a harmony in our mind and body, which then keeps us balanced and centered. And yoga is one of the best ways to achieve this. 

5 Yoga poses for grounding 

Tree Pose

Known as Virkshasana, the tree pose is a balancing posture which enables us to improve strength and stability. Staying deeply rooted to the earth in this pose allows us to connect to the earth element within us and outside, encouraging a sense of grounding.

Garland Pose

‍Popularly called the yogic squat, the garland pose or Malasana, opens up the hips and groin while stretching the feet and ankles. Once in the posture, simply take deep breaths and feel your feet connecting with the ground beneath you. 

Warrior 1

‍A posture that makes you feel strong, steady and focused, Virabhadrasana 1 encourages you to sink deeper into the ground while holding still and improving strength. It has a strong impact on the muscles of the arms and legs, making them stronger. 

Downward Facing Dog

Known as Adho Mukha Savnasana, this pose involves connecting the hands and feet to the earth. The palms and feet are both pressed down, with the weight equally distributed. When the feet are brought completely to the mat, the soles of the feet are connected with the earth in a strong way. 

Corpse pose

‍A very relaxing posture, in Svanasana the entire body is connected to the earth. A very powerful pose to do, a few minutes of the corpse pose at the end of your practice will balance and stimulate the earth element, and keep you grounded. 

Generally, standing yoga poses cultivate a strong connection to the earth, keeping us grounded and stable. They require focus and strength to hold still and stay strong. They also create a strong foundation. So apart from these postures, many others such as the Eagle Pose, Mountain Pose, Triangle Pose, Warrior 2, etc are all useful. Deep and steady breathing is encouraged throughout. 

Other Yoga Practices for Grounding 

Apart from yoga poses, practicing Pranayama or breathing exercises such as Alternate Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana) helps calm the mind and body and keeps us grounded. It reduces stress and anxiety and brings us to the present. It is also a wonderful balancing pranayama. Full Yogic Breathing or Box Breathing are also impactful practices as they relieve stress, improve awareness and presence of mind. Other effective practices are 'Drishti' or 'nose tip gazing' and the cleansing practice Trataka which is done by gazing at a candle. 

Practicing Yoga Nidra while laying down in Savasana is also very beneficial for grounding. It works on the subconscious mind, reduces stress and induces a sense of peace and calm. Meditating to the Beej mantra of the root chakra, that is, LAM is very helpful, as is chanting of a mantra japa.  Body scan meditation and focused meditation (on an internal or external symbol) also activate and balance the root chakra, having an effect on grounding. 

Walking barefoot on grass or the earth itself is one of the most powerful ways to stay grounded. Allow yourself just a few minutes in the morning or evening when you can connect to the earth. Practice deep breathing in the midst of nature, chanting or meditation outdoors as the impact and connection will be stronger. 

Concluding thoughts 

Being grounded means feeling stronger, balanced and calmer in the body and mind. Sometimes you might feel like it takes a lot to stay grounded, and sometimes just a few practices will help. This varies based on external influences, stress and our body’s composition. Develop a routine that allows you sufficient time to spend in grounding activities, connect and build a strong foundation with the earth, and experience the pure and simple joys of nature.