Tips for dealing with stress and anxiety
As a person who goes through anxiety, I have been practicing new ways to get my anxiety under control and it’s changed my life significantly for the better.
Listen to very calm music. I’m a huge fan of loud music but when I need to relax I play low-fi hip hop, instrumentals, classical music, and smooth jazz. Music with no lyrics really allows me to clear my mind and makes me feel more creative because I get to choose what the song means to me.
Write about it. Journaling may not solve the problem but it definitely gives your emotions a safe outlet. I also write poetry and recite it out loud to get it out of my system. So next time you’re feeling a way: try writing it down, reading it out loud, and releasing it to the wind. I also like to go back to what I wrote once I’ve overcome it. It’s a great reminder of my growth and how seemingly big things can quickly become seemingly small things.
Indulge in a hobby or creative act. I like to play an instrument. To my people who are going through a lot, I suggest learning an instrument or just any new skill. Learning boosts our self-esteem and occupies our minds. Often times anxiety can come from the woe of an “idle mind being the devil’s playground.”. Learning is a process that teaches patience, is highly rewarding and it’s therapeutic. With an instrument in particular, all of the emotions you feel can be expressed through that instrument.
Go outside. Nothing soothes the soul like being in nature on a nice day. I like to sit in the shade or just go for a walk whenever I need to clear my mind and I always feel better afterwards.
Meditate. I recently started meditating when I went through a break up and it has calmed my nerves significantly. You don’t have to close your eyes and mumble to meditate; just sit quietly and be still. You are only trying to become aware of your current mental and emotional state. Meditation is not about control. Taking time out to be still and live in the moment is so important and helps you appreciate life for what it is. It helps you maintain an attitude of gratitude and leave regret in the past and worry in the future.
Spend time with loved ones. There’s nothing like going on a lunch date with friends and laughing over nonsense. I have been spending more time with my family now than ever before and it’s given me such a strong sense of love and belonging. Surround yourself with people that love and encourage you to keep going and you will thrive. Trust me you’ll see a change.