Managing Anxiety

Managing Anxiety: Simple Tools for Everyday Relief

In today's fast-paced world, anxiety is something most of us encounter at some point. Whether it's work pressure, personal challenges, or just the overwhelming demands of life, it can hit hard. Recently, I had a moment where anxiety nearly crippled me. And I did what many of us instinctively do—I started beating myself up about it, telling myself to "just get over it." But this approach wasn't helpful at all.

Over the years, I've learned a few techniques that genuinely help, and I’d like to share them with you in case they resonate with your own journey.

1. Journaling: Clearing Out the Cobwebs

When I first heard about journaling as a tool for managing anxiety, I was skeptical. The idea of writing a "Dear Diary" entry wasn’t exactly appealing. However, journaling doesn’t have to be formal or structured. It’s simply about putting pen to paper and letting all the messy thoughts and feelings pour out. I like to think of it as cleaning out the cobwebs in my brain. Once it's out of your head and on paper, you’ll often find a sense of relief.

The goal isn't to create something worth re-reading—it's just to offload. For me, this week, after a quick journaling session, I felt noticeably better within an hour. There's something truly cathartic about it.

2. Get Outside and Move

Another powerful tool is movement. When anxiety hits, taking a walk outside can do wonders. If you’re lucky enough to have a dog—or two, like I do—take them with you. There’s something incredibly grounding about nature and the unconditional love of pets. Even a short walk can shift your mood and help you feel more in control.

3. Listen to a Motivational Podcast

Podcasts are another fantastic resource. I find Lewis Howe’s Daily Motivation podcast incredibly helpful. It’s full of snippets from longer interviews, each about 10 minutes long, which is perfect for a quick hit of inspiration. If something resonates with you, you can always go back and listen to the full episode later. I think of this practice as a form of going to the "spiritual gym." While I might not always make it to the actual gym, this kind of mental workout keeps me feeling centered.

Anxiety is a normal part of life, but these simple strategies—journaling, getting outside, and finding motivation through podcasts—can help manage it. Everyone's path to wellness is unique, but hopefully, these tools offer some relief. Remember, you’re not alone, and there are ways to navigate through it. Stay well!