Grounding as a Meditation Ally: A New Rhythm for Presence

With a two and five-year-old, my meditation practice has definitely evolved. There are days I simply can’t commit to the 40-minute, twice-daily meditation routine that was once my foundation. To be honest, long sittings have become the exception, not the norm.

But what hasn’t changed is my devotion to the state that meditation brings me to—a calm, centred version of myself where stress dissolves, clarity returns, and I’m more present with my family. On the days I skip it entirely, I can feel the difference. Instead of creating calm, I contribute to the chaos. Without that daily reset, it feels like wading through concrete.

So, I’ve adapted. I’ve found ways to work with my time and rhythm, embracing new techniques and trusted allies that deliver the essence of meditation in shorter, more accessible forms.

Meditation, Evolved

Meditation remains one of my non-negotiables—but I now practice it with more flexibility and self-compassion. I’ve moved away from guilt and rigidity, allowing a more fluid approach that supports this season of motherhood.

After my second child, life became even fuller. Exhaustion was constant, and the idea of meditating felt absurd. I couldn’t shower or eat uninterrupted—let alone enter a deep meditative state. The guilt I placed on myself only added to the pressure.

Eventually, I shifted. I realised I could access grounding—even briefly—and that it was just as transformative. Five minutes of conscious presence while breastfeeding became sacred. These moments reconnected me to my inner stillness.

Grounding: A Gateway to Self

Grounding gets you out of your mind and back into your body. It pulls you into the now—into your breath, your senses, your truth. With consistent practice, grounding becomes a thread of calm running through the day.

When we are overwhelmed, emotionally flooded, or energetically scattered, grounding gently restores us. It balances our physical, mental, emotional, and energetic bodies, connecting us to a stable centre. It reminds us that peace is always available.

My Grounding Allies

• The Shower — My most sacred grounding space. I drop in morning and night, uninterrupted (mostly).

• Incense & Grounding Spray — Scent is my fastest anchor. One inhale of my handmade grounding spray instantly draws me inward. It’s my portable portal.

• Mala Beads — Worn daily as gentle reminders. They absorb density, regulate my energy, and invite pauses of presence.

A Grounding Practice (No Meditation Experience Required)

1. Sit or stand comfortably.

2. Take a few deep breaths and feel your feet on the ground.

3. Name 5 things you can see, 4 you can feel, 3 you can hear, 2 you can smell, and 1 you can taste.

4. Inhale presence. Exhale everything else.

Five minutes is enough. If you have more, stay longer. There is no right way—only your way.

Final Thoughts

As parents, we’re constantly navigating intensity. Meditation is still a cornerstone of coming home to myself—but on the days it’s not possible, grounding is my lifeline.

When you can't go deep, go steady. When you can’t go far, go inward.

And trust that every small moment of presence builds the sanctuary within.

Written for Calma Places by Kristen Budd — Energy Healer & Incense Artisan