It’s a new year, which means the opportunity for new beginnings. Like many, you may be planning to go on a big trip or get back into shape. Think about this—when you’re making your list of goals for the coming year, why not include ways to lower your stress and reduce anxiety?
If anxiety has been a problem for you in the past, you can make this year your best yet and say goodbye to anxiety.
While anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., you can make some small changes every day to help work toward a better you with less anxiety and stress.
Consider these ideas:
1. Begin a Daily Practice
First, start with creating a daily practice for yourself that focuses on stress and anxiety management.
Believe it or not, the easiest way to cope with stress is practicing techniques during times of low anxiety. That way, when anxiety does strike, you already have tools in your toolbox ready to go. And you have a better chance of preventing an anxiety attack by staying more in control.
For example:
- Go for a morning walk.
- Use breathing exercises.
- Listen to music.
- Have a favorite spot at your home or a park to unwind.
- Practice mindfulness and meditation.
Start with one idea, then incorporate more technique as time goes by.
2. Regulate Your Media Use
Watching the news or scrolling through your social media feeds can be stressful, and even cause anxiety. With all of the information available today at our fingertips, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and even depressed.
Make it a goal this year to regulate your media use so that it’s more in control.
One idea is to designate a space in your house for media use. Also, keep phones, laptops, and even TVs out of the bedroom entirely. Another idea is to take a holiday from social media use at least one day a week.
For example, consider not logging on at all on weekends. Instead, reserve this time for getting out of the house, having adventures, or simply cuddling up with a good book and a hot drink.
3. Have Fun
When was the last time you really had fun? If you’re like many of us, it was probably a long time ago.
It’s so easy to get caught up with our responsibilities, whether it’s work or family. But it’s important to make the time for the things you really enjoy. It could be a hobby, sport, or craft project that you like to do.
If you’re scratching your head thinking, “What I like to do is work,” then it’s time to find a hobby!
Remember, focusing entirely on work can lead to burnout and frustration. Recreation allows you to have more balance in your life. In turn, it reduces stress and anxiety.
4. Be Less Attached to Outcomes
Do you worry about the possibility of a delayed flight? Or are you extremely focused on what should be the “correct” career path?
Being attached to outcomes can cause a lot of stress and anxiety. This is especially true if things don’t work out as you planned. When that happens it’s easy to get caught up in worry and anxiety as things aren’t happening as they “should” be.
Attachment comes from a desire to be in control. Yet, it’s impossible to control everything in life. Instead, consider letting go of those attachments that are causing you to worry and feel anxious.
—
Anxiety Therapy Columbus Ohio
You can make this your best year yet by finding ways to lower your anxiety levels and have less stress. By taking simple steps each day, you’ll find by the end of the year that you’re experiencing less worry and anxiety.
If you’re having trouble managing anxiety or you feel overwhelmed by the stress in our life and decide you’re in need of a high quality counseling practice in the Columbus, OH area, please reach out and contact Blue Boat Counseling today. Our skilled anxiety counselors can help you be you.
