5 Ways to Deal With Anxiety
Anxiety, nervousness, tension, and stress are all emotions that people experience from time to time. Here are five suggestions for dealing with them:
Become an expert in relaxation.
We all believe we know how to unwind. Relaxing in front of the TV or computer, on the other hand, isn’t true relaxation. (It can also make you nervous, depending on what you’re watching or doing.) Alcohol, drugs, and tobacco are all examples of this. They can appear to alleviate anxiety or tension, but this is just a temporary state of relaxation. What the body really needs is a frequent practice of a calming technique that has a physical effect on the mind, such as deep breathing, tai chi, or yoga. Deep breathing, for example, helps to calm a major nerve that runs from the diaphragm to the brain, signaling the whole body to relax and let go.
Make sure you get enough sleep, food, and exercise.
Do you want your mind and body to be calm and healthy enough to deal with life’s ups and downs? Get enough sleep to meet your needs — not too much or too little. Eat healthily: For long-term energy, choose fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains (instead of the short bursts that come from too much sugar or caffeine). Often, exercise to ensure that oxygen reaches every cell in the body, allowing your brain and body to function at their fullest.
Make friends with people.
Spend time with family or friends. Organized events are great, but simply hanging out can be just as effective. Doing things with people we care for strengthens our relationships and makes us feel supported and secure. And the enjoyment that come with it makes us feel happier and less stressed. If you’re worried or anxious about something, talking it over with someone who listens and cares can help you feel better understood and more capable of dealing with it. You’ll be reminded that everyone experiences these emotions from time to time. You’re not the only one who feels this way.
Spend time in nature.
Anyone can feel peaceful and grounded by going for a walk in the park or a hike in the woods. (Select a location where you feel safe so you can unwind and take in your surroundings.) Walking, hiking, trail biking, and snowshoeing are all good ways to get some exercise. Bring a friend or two — or a family member — and enjoy the feeling of being connected to others.
Pay attention to the positive aspects of life.
Focusing our thoughts on things that are good, beautiful, and positive is a great way to keep our minds off the worry track. Appreciate the little things in life. Allow yourself to fantasize, dream, and imagine the best-case scenario.
Note: Excessive anxiety or concern may be a symptom of an anxiety disorder. Having good treatment from a health provider is important for those with an anxiety disorder. Of course, these hints can be useful as well. However, the best way to overcome an anxiety disorder is to seek professional help.
