5 Simple Techniques to Manage Anxiety

Hey friend, life can be a wild ride sometimes! Deadlines loom, social media feeds overflow, and sometimes our brains just decide to throw an anxiety fiesta. But fear not, fellow traveler! Here are 5 simple techniques you can whip out to manage those anxious butterflies and bring some calm back to your day.

Breathe Like a Boss: This one's a classic for a reason. When anxiety hits, our breathing gets shallow and quick. Take a moment to be your own personal air traffic controller. Inhale slowly through your nose for a count of 4, hold for a count of 2, and then exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of 6. Repeat for a few minutes, focusing on the rise and fall of your breath.

Body Scan for Chill: Sometimes anxiety feels like it's clenching every muscle in your body. Do a quick body scan to release that tension. Start with your toes, wiggling them and then relaxing. Move slowly up your body, tensing and releasing muscle groups as you go. Imagine all the stress melting away like butter on a hot waffle.

Challenge the Chatterbox: Our brains can be real drama queens sometimes, spinning worst-case scenarios like a runaway yarn ball. When an anxious thought pops up, challenge it! Ask yourself, "Is this thought helpful?" or "How likely is this worst-case scenario to actually happen?" Often, a little questioning can calm the internal storm.

Do Your Happy Dance (Even if Nobody's Watching): Exercise is a fantastic anxiety antidote. It releases endorphins, those feel-good chemicals that chase away the blues. Go for a brisk walk, blast some music and have a solo dance party, or do some jumping jacks. Get your body moving and watch your mood improve!

Find Your Happy Place: Everyone needs a mental escape pod. Whether it's picturing yourself on a beach with a fruity drink, curled up with a good book, or spending time with a loved one, find your happy place. When anxiety strikes, close your eyes and visualize yourself in that calming scenario. It'll help take the edge off and bring back some peace.

Remember, you're not alone in this. These techniques are just a starting point. If anxiety is a constant companion, don't hesitate to reach out to a ChoicePoint's therapist or counselor. They can be amazing allies in your mental health journey. Now, go forth and conquer your day, anxiety-free! https://www.choicepointhealth.com/mental-health-treatment/