5 ways to deal with Sensory Overload or Overwhelm

​Whether you are an empath, HSP (Highly Sensitive Person) or not, anyone can experience overwhelm because of sensory overload (Too much happening at the same time – sounds, smell, noise, tastes, thoughts, events etc). Here are 5 simple ways that can help you calm your nerves anytime anywhere.

​1. Do the HeartMath breathing

Also known as Heart coherence breathing technique, it is recommended you breathe in for 5-6 seconds & breathe out for 5-6 seconds. Breathe smoothly and comfortably. It also helps in calming down your stress levels.

2. Ground yourself

​When a lot is happening and our senses feel overloaded and overwhelmed with stuff, one can tend to feel spaced out and foggy in the brain. Its a sign that the brain needs a break. Also when this happens, one is either stuck in the past with fond memories or regrets or in future with planning or worries. In such moments, grounding helps one get back to the present and bring your awareness to this moment inside your body. Simply visualize yourself like a tree, with your roots going deep into the Earth and your branches spreading towards the sky. Breathe in and allow yourself to feel rooted in the moment.

3. Use EFT or Tapping

EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), commonly known as Tapping, is a very simple and effective method of releasing the pent up energy, any emotional blocks and upsets and bringing you to the present moment feeling better. You can either use the whole basic recipe or if extremely overwhelmed, tap on the 3 quick relief points – Under eye, Collar bone and under arm. Do this for about 3-5 minutes. You can do this silently or repeat any affirmation like “All is Well” or “I am Ok” etc. This will help you feel settled and calm in a matter of minutes. (For more details on tapping, view and subscribe to my youtube channel)

Quick Anxiety Relief Tapping Points

4. Drink water or eat a piece of chocolate

We are more than 90% water. Having water soothes our body, calms the mind and allows the toxins (physical or emotional) to be easily released from the body. Anytime we swallow, it gives our brain the signal that all is fine and I can take in what is happening, its okay and I can digest it. It is true not just for food but for thoughts and emotions as well. Chocolate releases happy chemicals in the body helping us relax and feel warm on the inside. This is why many people who are addicted to chocolate are actually looking for soothing and comfort at an emotional level.

5. Connect with a plant or a tree

Anytime we connect to nature in any form, it soothes our nerves and calms our nervous system down. In essence its a very grounding experience. So whether its a tree or a plant in your garden, in your vicinity or even in your balcony, sit by its side, close your eyes and notice the energy of the plant. Connect to it energetically as if talking to it. If it is your first time, it may help to talk to the plant out loud until you can tune in to the energy of the plant. Hugging a tree has always been considered therapeutic. Remember to do this only during the daytime until sunset.