Feeling overwhelmed right now? Breathing and grounding techniques from the NSB wellness guide

Everyone experiences stress, grief or overwhelm at times. The NSB Health & Social Services wellness guide offers two simple tools you can use anywhere, on your own. Breathe in calm, breathe out stress (4-7-8 breathing): slow, steady breathing can help calm your body and mind. Inhale through your nose for 4 counts. Hold your breath for 7 counts. Exhale slowly through your mouth for 8 counts. Repeat 3 to 5 times. Feel your feet: when anxiety hits, grounding yourself can help you feel safe in the moment. Sit or stand with both feet flat on the floor. Wiggle your toes and notice how your feet feel. Then name 3 things you can see, 2 things you can touch, and 1 thing you can hear. The guide also suggests saying to yourself: "This feeling will pass. I am safe right now." These tools help in the moment, but you do not have to get through hard times alone. It is a sign of strength, not weakness, to reach out. For confidential support any time, call or text 988 (Alaska Careline), or call the 24/7 North Slope Crisis Line at 907-319-3040. In an emergency, call 911. (Source: North Slope Borough Health & Social Services resource guide.)