“Life is about rhythm. We vibrate, our hearts are pumping blood. We are a rhythm machine, that’s what we are.” Micky Hart, drummer.

Photo of the week: drummer and drum set made from watch pieces, created by Henry Herbert.

Life moves in seasons. Our bodies have rhythm. Time ticks by at a steady rate. Our strongest hopes and needs cannot speed or slow time, only the perception of it.

Some people have ways of honoring seasons, rhythmic moments, milestones. There are religious rituals, cultural expectations, social obligations that we use to mark time’s passing. These markers help us make sense of life and help us to make meaning, whether it is celebrating an anniversary or starting a new school year.

When our rhythm is thrown off, we may become dysregulated. Dysregulation can feel like becoming disconnected from our bodies, emotional extremes, panic, or numbness. Dysregulation can last moments or can become chronic.

One method of becoming regulated is to become grounded in the rhythm of your body. Slowly tapping your collarbone or knees while noticing the sensation can help. This can bring you back into your body and into the present moment. Focusing on the rhythm of your breathing can help. Slow breathing can remind the alerted part of your brain that you are safe. Feeling safe and calm can help you think more clearly.

How do you keep rhythm in your life? How do you find grounding when your rhythm is thrown off?