Anxiety is a normal part of being human, but sometimes it can get to be too much. If you’re feeling depressed or anxious, don’t worry: there are ways to feel better. Here are some tips for overcoming anxiety and feeling better:
Breathe
Dr Michael Vivian Breathing exercises can be done anywhere, with or without a partner and don’t require any special equipment. They can also be done with or without music or a clock.
Here are some breathing exercises to try:
• Breathe in for 5 seconds, hold for 2 seconds, then breathe out slowly over 6 seconds. Repeat this cycle 3 times (5-2-6).
• Count 1-2-3 as you breathe in through your nose and 4-5-6 as you exhale through your mouth until you have completed 6 cycles of counting 1-2-3 and 4–5–6
Focus On Health
When you’re feeling anxious, it can be hard to think about anything else. But if you’re not taking care of yourself physically, it will only be harder to deal with your anxiety. Here are some simple tips from Dr Michael Vivian that can help you.
• Eat well and take time for exercise. Eating nutrient-dense foods like vegetables and whole grains is important for your overall health and wellbeing–it’ll make a difference in how well your body functions when under stress.
• Get enough sleep at night (7-9 hours). It’s one thing for an adult human being not getting enough sleep; another thing entirely when it comes from someone who has mental health problems such as depression or generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
Make Time For What You Love
If you’re feeling anxious, it can be hard to make time for the things that bring you joy. You may feel like there is no time in your day for anything but work, family and other obligations. But this is a mistake! When we allow ourselves to drown under stress and anxiety, we lose sight of what makes us happy–and what makes our lives worth living.
Therefore: make time for what makes YOU happy! This might mean getting together with friends more often or setting aside an hour each week where nothing else matters except doing something fun.