Simple Ways to Relieve Stress and Anxiety
Up until a few months ago, it only existed in Hollywood movies. A catastrophe on a global scale with a virus infecting every nook and corner of our planet, and a united mankind struggling to keep itself alive. I had not seen it coming, perhaps none of us did; nevertheless, life has taken a different course for us.
These days, my social media scroll and news channels bring stories of surging death tolls… It’s been incredibly hard to turn off the news, get off my phone, and not tune in to the noise. But what I’ve realised is that stress and anxiety have become a normal part of the new world order. Since I know many of you might be feeling the same way, I wanted to share some simple techniques {insights, if you will} that I incorporate to keep my boat sailing. This simple approach on how to deal with stress and anxiety effectively will help you relax and put things in perspective…
- It’s Time for Digital Detox
I know you are reading this piece from your digital device. They are our true Swiss knives in a fast-changing world. These gadgets help us stay aware of the world around us, but little do we realise that they are also feasting on our peace of mind. The effects may not be too apparent, but every bit of negative/anxiety-provoking news trickling into our minds, adds to our stress and anxiety.
Besides, posts on social media from our friends are mostly all smiles and cheers. This can create an unhealthy cycle of comparison, making us wonder if we are the only ones struggling to cope with disquietude. But these issues can be resolved if we make up our minds to put the phone down, turn off the computer, and stay unplugged. In a sense, give our brains a break and let it ease for a while.
- Think ONLY About the Variables You Can Control
A million things are happening around you, and you are a mere spectator for the most part. I know there are only a handful of events I can determine the outcome of, and very few variables I can control. Worrying over things beyond my control is a recipe for depression. Instead, I take time to invest my energy into little things I can actually do.
Are you bothered about the possibility of virus infection? Well, follow the little things which are well within your reach. Wear gloves, use sanitisers, wash your hands and face, and do not leave indoors unless necessary.
Start compiling a to-do list of actions you can readily take. Whether you are ready or not, dive deep into it. Start checking those boxes one by one. Finished tasks will give you a sense of accomplishment and help you reduce your stress and anxiety.
- Take Care of Your Body and Mind
Anxiety comes from all walks of life, but it usually heightens when you’re worried about future events. The enormous amount of stress caused by the defining health crisis of our time ~ COVID-19, has probably taken its toll on your mind and body. I’ve learned that a health wellness and self-care routine is often the best way to restore sanity to your mind and revitalise your body. I wouldn’t be able to advise you on what would constitute as “self-care” for you, but it could be anything from journaling to indulging in a yoga routine. While some people find jogging in the morning a liberating experience, for others meditation works wonders. I have personally found early morning walks hugely rewarding.
Pick your move and start making inroads now.
- Let’s Look at the Mirror
Negative thoughts can often set off a domino effect, and you would find yourself deeply buried in questions before you know it. This used to happen to me; I always imagined the worst-case scenario and played out unlikely situations in my head. I beat the hell out of this habit by talking to myself. I looked at the mirror and asked myself reasonable questions.
“What could I have possibly done differently?” “Was the outcome as bad as I initially believed?” I asked many such questions, challenging my thoughts during my introspective sessions. Once I learned to be realistic and not to conjure up extreme/anxiety-inducing situations, the mirror gave me the right answers.
To reiterate, our thoughts can cause a ripple effect and are what define us. I would hence encourage you to have conversations with yourself occasionally. I have personally found it to be a great stress buster.
- Let’s Find Healthy Distractions
I mean a good hobby! If you think that scrolling through your social media feed is a nice hobby to cultivate, you are merely dialling the clock back to its vicious origin. Any hobby that helps take your mind off and bring positivity would be great. Is there a guitar catching dust in your attic? Perhaps it’s time to revive. Was there a book you always wanted to read? There is no better time than now.
Activities that involve concentration and focus are usually the most effective, as they redirect your energy. Start finding your meaningful activity and indulge in it. I took up reading to keep myself occupied healthily and productively, and I am thankful for the moment I decided to do so.
To conclude: You are never too far from a stressful experience in the modern world. If you are unsure about how to deal with stress and anxiety, just remember that stopping and mounting the pressure is what’s causing you to undo yourself. But by continuing on your wellness journey with proper self-care, interesting hobbies, a determination to control the variables you can, and introspecting ~ you can restore calm to your chaotic life.
With some patience and a few useful strategies, you can live a fuller and healthier life. That being said, I am aware that every individual has their unique strategy to beat stress and anxiety; I’d love to hear yours. Consider leaving your thoughts in the comments below.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is not intended to take the place of a physician’s or healthcare professional’s diagnosis, treat a medical condition, or provide medical advice. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information.