I’ve had anxiety for as long as I can remember and I’m not sure where it really stems. To say the least, anxiety has kept me from achieving a lot! Overthinking is my biggest issue when it comes to anxiety and sometimes different scenarios form in my head (whether they’ve happened or not). Sometimes the people around you begin to wonder if they’re the issue. Anxiety isn’t fun and it will keep you from moving forward, but I’ve learned some techniques that have helped me.

 

Meditation

I used to think that people were crazy when they mentioned that they mediated. So, cross your legs, close your eyes, and make a “hmmm” noise? This sounded ridiculous and I wasn’t going to do it. It’s funny how we can judge based off what we see or hear without first trying.  Yet I was still uninterested until I had no choice. I had a choice, but trying something new wouldn’t hurt. So, I sat in a quiet room, closed my eyes, and waited. I don’t know what I was waiting for or I was doing but I was sure I was mediating. lol I wasn’t. Tried again.

I sat in a quiet space, closed my  eyes, and let EVERY thought that wanted to come, just come.  It sounds crazy because we want our thoughts, especially our negative thoughts to leave. That’s unrealistic. After my first few times mediating, I was cured. 😉 No, not really, but I’m figuring it out. Relaxing. Breathing. And letting every thought in. Meditation has helped me so much with my anxiety. It’s not a quick fix, but it helps.

Apps for anxiety/meditation: Headspace and Anxiety Relief.

 

Writing

Now I wouldn’t be a blogger if I didn’t write and I wouldn’t be honest if I didn’t say that writing calms me. I’ve been journaling since I could write and verbally expressing myself wasn’t easy. When given a pen and paper or my mac book, nothing can stop me. I get lost in my writing and has become so enjoyable that I hope to do it full-time. Even if you’re not interested in writing or don’t know where to start try writing down 5 things you’re grateful for daily. That’s not only a start but it’ll help show you what you do have to be thankful for.

Exercise

If I’m honest, I don’t like to workout. I played sports for years and I think that was enough. lol But I’ve found that when my heart rate is up the less anxious I feel. Exercise of any kind is an awesome antidote for depression and anxiety. So get your exercise in daily even if it’s for 20 minutes. My favorite is just walking my dog around the block, it’s not a lot but it sure helps get my mind off of the craziness of the day. Leave your phone and go take a walk.

Hope this helps! Let me know in the comments what you use to lessen your anxiety!

Peace!

 

Kineatra