When you’re consistently anxious, it can be easy to rely on others to calm you down when things get stressful or if you experience a panic attack. So what do you do when you’re alone, and in an anxiety-producing situation? Here are some actions you can take to keep you in your happy place.
1. Change Your Activity
If you’re just laying in bed thinking about a particularly unnerving circumstance, get up for a few minutes and choose another activity. Try reading a book or magazine for fifteen minutes, do some writing, or watch part of a television show (one that isn’t too stimulating—try TLC). Even just a walk to the bathroom and back could bring you back to reality just enough to shake those feelings that are preventing you from reaching your state of calm.
2. Try Anti-Anxiety Tea
While food is too heavy of an option to eat every time you’re feeling like you need something to take the edge off, basic drinks like tea can be helpful. I particularly love Yogi Honey Lavender Stress Relief Tea
. With natural ingredients like lavender and honey, you’ll be lulled back into Zen without having to take much stronger medications. This is also a great way of not developing bad late night eating habits if your anxiety comes during bedtime hours.
3. Watch Netflix (Doctor’s Orders)
Take your mind off of the stress in your own world by transporting yourself into another one! You're allowed to take a Netflix binge. Sometimes it isn’t so bad to let your brain take a day off from considering all the possibilities of every single situation that freaks you out. Immersing yourself in someone else’s situation can be freeing, and take the pressure off just enough to relax. Just remember not to watch anything too stimulating that would make it difficult to calm down (read: Scandal).
4. Physical Activity
A workout can make us gasp for air, but it can also be a great way to control or steady your heart rate. Focusing on breathing to comfortably exercise can actually reduce uncomfortable physical symptoms of anxiety. Exercise has also been known to reduce stress levels and pump up those endorphins. If you aren’t into going to the gym, try dancing!
5. Work in a Public Place
Sometimes, being around people will do the trick. If you’re getting too in your head, do some work or read in a coffee shop or bookstore, a relaxing environment where you are still surrounded by people. Keeping yourself in the present can help keep you grounded when your mind starts to wander.
Remember: your mental health is so important! Keeping yourself healthy can lead to better focus and overall happiness. Cheers!
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