Anxiety is something that most people experience at some point in their lives, but whether it's because of work stress, health concerns, or just the general chaos of life, those nervous, restless feelings can become very overwhelming very quickly.
Yes, there are plenty of simple and effective strategies that can help you to feel more in control, but getting on top of anxiety can in itself feel like a battle. So here are some approachable ways that you can manage your anxiety, ease your mind, and start feeling like yourself once again.
Breathe. It's the most basic of commands, but breathing that is focused can have a very powerful impact on your nervous system. When your body shifts into that fight or flight mode, taking slow, deep breaths can signal to your brain that you are safe, which helps it to switch gears.
Try supportive tools and products. Lifestyle changes can go a long way, but there are calming tools that can support your journey. Herbal teas, soothing music, and even weighted blankets can ease your attention. Some people also find comfort in products designed to promote relaxation from brands like Hidden CBD, who offer products that some users say help them to find a sense of calm. You should always talk to a healthcare provider before trying something new, however, especially if you're managing anxiety.
Get your body moving. A good way to dissipate those feelings of anxiety is to move your body and burn off the adrenaline. You don't have to run a marathon or hit the gym for hours, but a short walk, some stretching or dancing in your living room can help you to release tension and boost those feel good chemicals like endorphins. Moving your body can help you to shift your focus away from racing thoughts and reconnect with the present.
Break out of the thought loop. Anxiety can often show up as a repetitive negative thought loop that spirals out of control. One way to interrupt this loop is to physically write down what's bothering you. Seeing your worries on paper can help you to step back and look at them with more logic. If this is something you cannot control, then there's nothing you can do at that moment. But if it's something you can control, write down a step to take.
Put limits on the overload. We're living in a time of constant notifications and ticker tape news. There's always this pressure to be productive too, and we take that inside and we manifest that as anxiety. All of this input can fuel it without you even realizing it. Set boundaries with your technology, turn off notifications for your social media apps and take breaks from your phone. Give yourself time away from your socials to be able to unplug, unwind, and just sink into a good book.
Talk to somebody. Sometimes just saying how you feel can help. Whether you're doing it to a journal because you can't face a person, or you talk to a trusted friend or family member, you can lift that weight from your shoulders. If you don't want to talk to people you know, then speak to a therapist. You're a human being and connection is a big part of healing.