Grounding, shielding and centering are probably the most important spiritual exercises to learn. I try to ground and shield on a daily basis. Centering when I feel it is needed.
Grounding-
Grounding connects you energy to the Earth in a stable secure way. One grounds to get rid of unwanted energy, and receive positive, balanced energy. It helps bring stability to your inner being. If you have ever felt dizzy or light-headed, it may be that you need to ground (not to rule out physical & medical reasons).
To ground, the first thing you need to do is let go of all your tension, relax and calm yourself. You usually want to have both feet firmly planted on the ground, indoors or outside. You can also do this while lying down, most find it easier sitting or standing. Now visualize roots growing out of the bottom of your feet. Visualize these roots reaching downward and rooting deep into Earth. Visualize your roots firmly anchored into the Earth. These roots balance your energy, they give and take energy to keep your overall level steady. This is especially a good exercise to do when ever you feel stressed, or off balance. Ground to help reduce the feelings of stress. This allows you to feel more balanced.
To release negative energy, firmly ground and visualize unwanted energy draining down through the roots into the Earth. In turn, visualize receiving positive energy up through your roots, evenly flowing into every part of your body. You should physically feel the unwanted (negative) energy leaving your body and the positive energy flowing up throughout your body.
Usually I visualize the energy flowing up slowly through my feet, then legs, onto my abdomen, up through my chest, down my arms to my finger tips, and finally up through my head. Trust yourself and trust your feelings.
Shielding-
Shielding is when one surrounds themselves with a wall of energy that works like a window screen. It filters the energy that moves through it and defends against other�s negative energy. One usually shields themselves to prevent another person (psychic or spirit) from reading them, etc. Shielding also helps empaths keep other�s emotions separate from their own.
To shield, begin by thinking about your purpose for the shield. What do you want it to do? Will it keep out all energy, or just bad energy? Will it be permanent or temporary? Once you have decided, begin drawing energy and swirling it all around you. I envision my shield as a strong, thick, clear bubble that surrounds me. Others visualize vines, light, wings, water, fir, metal or armor. Choose something that you enjoy thinking about and isn�t cramped or heavy. When you feel the shield is strong enough, let go. It will maintain itself with the purpose you gave it when you created it. If you feel there may be negative energy inside your shield., drop your shield and push out the unwanted energy. Once the unwanted energy is away from you, put your shield up again. If your shield depletes over time, repeat and add more energy. I try to do this every couple days, every day if I feel the need to.
When I shield I usually ask that only the energy of Angels, my Spirit Guides, and those of Gods white-light be allowed past my shield. I will add to the strength of my shield if I feel �invaded� or am strongly picking up on the energies of another (empathy). Go with what feels right for you. Trust yourself.
Centering-
Centering is, finding your own identity and essence. This can enhance shielding. It allows you to perceive energy clearly. It keeps you emotionally stable as you encounter new things throughout your day.
To find your center is easiest when alone. Find somewhere quiet , where you can be alone and uninterrupted for at least 30 minutes.
Sit quietly, listening only to the sound of yourself breathing. Pay attention to how you feel and why. Let each feeling surface and pass on without judgment. Recognize your stream of thought and let it flow. Notice how your body feels and looks, any tension that your are carrying. Notice your daydreams, ideas, and everything that is part of you. As you do this, you will get a stronger feeling of yourself. With time, you�ll recognize more quickly what is a part of �who you are�, and what is temporary. This will help prevent empathic flooding and increase control of energy work you may do.
With practice, you will be able to pause and center yourself in almost any situation. If you are empathic, you may feel very uncomfortable in large crowds. Centering will reduce the �flooding�. Centering may also be good to do when you are around an individual whom has a very strong and overwhelming presence.
Practice these exercises often. Soon you should notice the differences from when you are centered, grounded, and shielded, and when you are not. You will then notice when you need to do one of these exercises and how often or strong (shield) it needs to be.