How to Roll Back Worry and Reduce Anxiety
By Sandy Schroeder
Most of us live in a fairly busy world, and sometimes it becomes too much. For example, reacting to world news is normal, but later if you find you are not able to sleep or concentrate on daily tasks, worry may have turned to anxiety and you may need new coping strategies. At times when we are overloaded, or simply tired, worry and anxiety can take up too much space in our lives.
If you find you are anxious much of the time you may want to see a doctor and a psychologist. At the same time, there are coping strategies that can help us mellow out when daily worries keep surfacing, such as these from the New York Times.
Breathe in and breathe out – When tension builds and worry takes over, step away or close the door and simply breathe. Here is one of my favorites.
Take five deep breaths in and out letting your belly come forward with each one. Imagine stress leaving your body as you exhale. Then smile, for real or fake it if you have to. Repeat this simple routine whenever you need to.
Let nature help – Step into your garden or walk to the park letting nature become the focus. I have many friends who are gardeners and they always seem to be positive. Spending time outside obviously works for them. Use the outdoors to lighten the load when the clouds move in.
Reach out to help others – Sometimes we can become so caught up in our own worries that we fail to see how many people need help. Whenever I take my family and make the rounds, visiting our local animal shelter, or stopping at a local hospital or senior center, I come away with a whole new perspective.
Work up a sweat – Heading out for a walk, run or jog, or settling onto your yoga mat, may be the best thing you can do to free up your mind and your body. If you are considering a new fitness routine, check with your doctor first.
Create electronic space – Turning off your phone when you are having dinner -- or parking it outside of your bedroom -- may be hard at first, but the sense of relaxation and the pleasures of real face-to-face conversations may help you enjoy a more mellow world.
Wherever you are with the issues of worry and anxiety, pay attention and find the solutions you need. Try a few coping strategies and consider seeing your doctor and a psychologist if you need more help. As you mellow out, all of the good stuff will definitely be worth the effort.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Morrisville, N.C.