Tiffany Young
Between balancing fast-paced work schedules, maintaining a social life, and making time for family, it seems like there aren’t enough hours in the day. With so much to do and so little time to do it all, people will often sacrifice sleep, self-care, and relaxation.
Amidst the hustle and bustle, the onset of stress and anxiety is unfortunately common in the lives of many people worldwide. We’ve compiled a list of tips and tricks to help combat these feelings and boost positive energy. Read on!
There’s nothing quite like getting your heart rate up to blow off some steam. When you’re feeling down, hit the gym or go for a jog in the park. Use this time to shake off nervous energy and refocus on the things that matter to you. Not only will regular physical activity clear your mind and minimize negative emotions, but it will also make you stronger and healthier. Outdoor activities in particular, can help with your daily dose of fresh air and vitamin D.
A consistent sleep schedule is enormously beneficial for your physical and mental health. Give yourself plenty of time to wind down before turning in for the evening. Then, set your alarm and wake up at the same time every day to establish a routine. Experts recommend avoiding screen time for the last 30 minutes before bed. Instead of staring at your laptop or phone screen, try reading a book or reflecting on the day with a gratitude journal.
Spending time with friends and family makes it easy to forget the worries that cloud our minds and steal our joy. Whether it’s a weekend road trip, or a quiet evening indoors playing games and watching a movie, there’s no limit to the fun memories you can make with loved ones. In the end, those people will be there for you and can ease the burdens of your stress and anxiety.
Whether it’s writing, painting, or playing an instrument, there are many ways to express yourself and your feelings. Sometimes it’s good to have a positive and creative outlet to let go of your stress and anxiety. Seek out new opportunities, and don’t be afraid to give them a try. You might just find a new passion, as well as find a new way to release negative emotions.
Triggers are thoughts, activities, or external stimuli that spark a certain reaction. Some triggers are unavoidable parts of our daily lives, whether it’s at work or while running errands. But social media, news broadcasting, and toxic relationships can also cause stress and anxiety. Fortunately, many of these are preventable with some time and effort. Be on the lookout for triggers within your control, and work to actively avoid these experiences.
For those that need extra guidance, cognitive behavioral therapy is always an option. Stress and anxiety can quickly become overwhelming if not addressed. Seeking therapy for anxiety should not be considered a sign of weakness but rather an investment in your mental health. A trained professional can offer advice for managing stress, reframing your reactions to stressors, and promoting a well-balanced lifestyle.
Perhaps the most important factor in managing stress and anxiety is practicing self-care. Don’t be too hard on yourself. You’re not at fault and certainly not alone in your feelings. Remember, you can always reach out if you need help. Here’s to a well-balanced life!
