Mallory Knee
Whether you’ve dealt with anxiety for years or its recently been brought on from the current climate and pandemic, it’s essential to learn ways to cope. Though anxiety can seem to rule your days and emotions, there are some things you can do to counteract those negative thoughts and worries. Of course, you should also talk to your doctor and see what ways they can help. In addition to that, we’ve also listed 5 simple ways to soothe and manage anxiety. They just might help!
Turn to Soothing Hobbies
One of our favorite tips for soothing anxiety comes from our daily activities. If you’re participating in activities that increase your stress, then it’s time to stop those and start something better. These are the activities that you can turn to when you’re feeling down or what you can do simply to stay calm. We suggest starting with some different craft ideas to combat anxiety—it’s a small and effective way to start!
Work on Breathing Tactics
You may notice that your breathing rate and heart rate spike when you’re anxious. That’s a normal response to stress, but it can also make you feel worse if you can’t catch your breath or calm your heart rate. That’s where breathing tactics come into play. You can go for boxed breathing (two-count breath in, two-count hold, two-count release, and two-count hold), equal breathing (four-count in, four-count release), or easy breathing (six-count in, four-count hold, six-count release). These tactics will manage your breath, help you feel more in control, and help manage anxiety.
Avoid Anxiety Aggravators
If you know that alcohol makes you anxious, try to cut it out. If you know that caffeine, lack of sleep, and too much TV aggravates your anxiety, then you need to try to avoid those things. The more you can recognize what triggers anxious moments, the better you can control and manage your anxiety.
Step Outside
For a lot of people, exercising can soothe anxiety and tension. That comes mostly from the release of endorphins. But, for others, exercise can end up bringing about different worries. This is why we simply suggest stepping outside. Get some fresh air and vitamin D—you can go on a walk around the block or bike around a park. It doesn’t have to feel like exercise, but that movement outside makes a significant impact.
Nourish Yourself
Anxiety affects people’s bodies in different ways. Where it may result in stress-eating for some, it may result in a lack of appetite for others. Either way, it’s essential to follow through with some healthy nourishment practices. Eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner and try to make them healthier meals—not just fast food. Well-balanced meals and energy-boosting snacks make a world of difference. In addition to that, make sure that you’re staying hydrated! Coffee is not water, juice is not water, and alcohol is not water. Your body needs straight H2O to survive, and if you want to thrive, then you should drink more water than you think you need.
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