I have such a hard time staying present when painful thoughts and memories are barging into my brain all day. I have tried meditation again and again, it's just not for me.
What are some easy, practical ideas for how to stay present throughout the day?
I think one of the most practical methods to stay present was about using small stones for grounding. Here's the post by Palomineo:
I actually do best on the days I jog or walk hard. Exercise like that helps me stay present.
I have to keep my brain busy to distract myself from thinking. I have to read or do an audio book while I am doing something. My thoughts come back even if I cook dinner. Playing games on my tablet keep me busy.
When my PTSD gets me stressed-out, my foster cats usually know, and will come over demanding attention and cuddles, and that usually works for me. Or if my boyfriend is over & I have a flashback, he'll usually cuddle me and (this might sound weird) slowly tickle my back - I can be in full-blown panic mode, and if he does that, not only do I relax, I'm likely to fall asleep! Also, I find that a nice hot cup of tea helps, too - I have quite the tea hoard from my favourite tea store, DAVIDsTEA. Teas like Big Chill, Mother's Little Helper (both have valerian in them), and a tea called Sweet Dreams mixed with a bit of peppermint are nice calming teas.
Keep us posted on how it works for you. 
Someone please help
Naming Emotions/Triggers
so often
Two a.m. more of the same --I guess I better add a TRIGGER WARNING
I fear my own body and body sensations
