Keeping Your Mind And Heart At Peace

I have spoken before on my struggles with anxiety and depression. This can be a difficult conversation for many people to have, especially since there is a stigma on mental health and it is a very personal topic. However, I believe that we not only help each other when we have the courage to be honest about our fears and concerns, but also help ourselves.  I have found over the years that it is therapeutic to be able to share my feelings with those around me. In doing so, I am hoping that I can help relate to others and give them the courage to share their situation with someone. The world is going through a very unusual pandemic that has swept panic and concern that is heard and felt around the world. I know that everyone has been dealing with the situation differently. I have also had people reach out to me seeking advice on how they can manage their stress during such an unprecedented time. I have developed different coping methods that have helped me deal with my anxiety and stay calm during a chaotic time. Hopefully one of these tips will help you get through your day with a calmer mind and heart. Hang in there- we are all in this together!

Coloring

Did you know that they make coloring books for adults? It may sound silly to some people, but I have found it to be a really soothing activity that allows me to focus on something other then my worries while letting out a bit of creative juice!

Move Around

If you are finding yourself feeling overly anxious, try to move your body around. Getting in a workout, going for a walk or dancing  to music can be the perfect distraction!

Take Deep Breaths

Taking deep breaths can be a quick way to calm yourself. There are a lot of apps or videos that you can watch that will do specific breathing exercises with you, too. If you don’t feel like plugging into technology at that moment, try to find a quiet space, close your eyes and slowly count to 10 until you feel calmer.

Dab Yourself With Oil

A lot of people use essential oils for many different things. I love that it’s a natural remedy that can help fix something that is bothering you. Lavender oil has been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety. Dab a bit on your wrists and take in a deep breath of the scent. They also make sprays that can be used on your pillow at night time.

Talk To Someone

Having someone that you feel you can open up to during a stressful moment can also be helpful. Not only can it be a simple distraction to have a conversation about something unrelated to your own thoughts, but it can also help to bounce how you are feeling off of them, too. Try to open up to someone and see if talking the problem out helps you feel more at ease.

Try Distracting Yourself

If moving around is not distracting enough, try to find something else that will distract you. You can start to organize a room, clean, watch a funny tv show, listen to music or start a project around the house that you have been putting off. If you get your mind focused on something else, you can usually feel some of the tension start to leave.