A method of stabilizing a dike using a ground anchor assembly, includes: connecting a ground anchor to a first end of a tensile member; introducing the ground anchor through the earth body and into a stable layer beneath the dike; providing a pressure distributing member on or around the tensile member at a position within the dike where stabilization against lateral earth movement is required; and connecting a second end of the tensile member to a counter member at an outer surface of the dike.