When we feel anxious, it is usually because we are not living in the present moment. Stress or anxiety is fear based. We worry about what “may” happen in the future or we have regrets about the past. We cannot change the past, learn from it and move on. We can prepare for future, but, we cannot control everything that will happen in our future. There is no power in worry. Try these 5 ways to manage anxiety and see if you feel better.
1. Worry Exercise. Get a sheet of paper and draw three columns on it. Mark these three heading at the top of the columns: What caused the worry? Did worry change the situation? Did it enhance the situation by worrying? This next week, fill this out when you worrying. See if you find any patterns in your behavior. Can you release some of your worries?
2. Gratitude is the best attitude. Next time you are feeling anxious, write down ten things that you are grateful for.
3. Breathe. Stop what you are doing and take 5 deep breaths. Concentrate on your breath going in and out of your nostrils.
4. Affirmations. Words are powerful. A favorite quote of mine from James Allen, “all that we achieve and all that we fail to achieve is the direct result of our own thoughts.” Write out some positive affirmations and say them out loud. Remember they are always written in the present tense. Some examples are: I love and approve of myself. The past is over. It is only a thought and thoughts can be changed. I trust the process of life.
5. Exercise. Head out to the gym, go for a walk, or put on a You Tube exercise video. Get that body moving on a daily basis.
Try to find one or two of these that work for you. Begin using them, so, they become habits.
How do you handle anxiety?