InnerCalmGuide.com
5-4-3-2-1 Emergency Grounding Pocket Card
Use this whenever panic, severe anxiety, or racing thoughts strike.
5

5 Things You Can SEE

Look around you. Notice 5 distinct details — a pattern on the wall, a reflection, a shadow, a color, or an object.

4

4 Things You Can TOUCH

Feel 4 physical sensations — your feet flat on the floor, texture of your clothes, cool air on skin, or a desk edge.

3

3 Things You Can HEAR

Listen closely. Identify 3 distant or subtle sounds — clock ticking, hum of traffic, breeze, or your own breath.

2

2 Things You Can SMELL

Notice 2 scents in the air — coffee, fresh laundry, soap, paper, or take a slow deep breath through your nose.

1

1 Thing You Can TASTE

Notice 1 taste in your mouth — sip of water, mint, or simply focus on the feeling of your tongue resting behind your top teeth.

Interactive Grounding Tool: https://innercalmguide.com/tools/grounding/