Using Grounding Technique as a Mindfulness Tool to Enhance Working Memory and Cognitive Flexibility among Bereaved Individuals
International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research March 11, 2026 DOI: 10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i02.71062 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Intervention study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 30 |
| Population | Adults aged 20-60 years who had lost a family member or someone important within 6 months to 2 years post bereavement |
| Duration | 4 weeks, with 3 sessions per week for a total of 12 sessions |
| Measures | Stroop Test (Stroop interference scores, Stroop ratio scores) |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Key points | The authors propose that grounding techniques, delivered in 12 sessions over 4 weeks, can reduce mental effort and improve cognitive flexibility and working memory in recently bereaved adults. They expect participants to show progress on Stroop interference and ratio scores, though the abstract reports no actual results. |
Abstract
This study looks at how well the grounding technique works as a mindfulness method to improve working memory and cognitive flexibility in people between the ages of 20- 60 yrs who have recently lost a family member or someone important within 6 months post bereavement to 2 years. Grounding techniques help people stay focused on the present by using their senses and thinking clearly, like the 5-4-3-2-1 method. These techniques are suggested to make thinking easier and lessen emotional pain that can affect memory during times of loss. Here, the main factors are working memory and cognitive flexibility. A total of 30 people who had lost someone were chosen through purposive sampling. The grounding technique was given one-on-one for 4 weeks, with 3 sessions each week, making a total of 12 sessions. Cognitive performance was measured using the Stroop Test as the only tool for assessment. Stroop interference scores helped check how flexible someone's thinking is, and Stroop ratio scores were used to measure their working memory. Participants are expected to show progress in both areas after the intervention. The study shows that using grounding techniques to manage emotions can help lower mental effort, improve the ability to think flexibly, and boost memory in people who have experienced a loss. This suggests that grounding is a useful, drug-free method to build mental strength and resilience.