As we transition into the Fall and Winter season, I am reminded of how many people suffer from anxiety. Whether its from social pressures or the natural darker weather months, here are my top 11 anxiety tips:
- Take a time-out. This little hack shouldn’t be limited to kids. Stepping back from a stressful situation or person will give you some perspective and allow you to think and respond more clearly.
- Set boundaries. This goes for your time commitments, activities, friendships, work and health. Establishing boundaries is a form of self-respect and self-care.
- Eat nutritional meals on schedule with your body’s needs. Keep healthy snacks like nuts and avocados around for a quick fuel source when you’re under pressure. Keep your protein intake adequate to stabilize your blood sugar levels, which will help your mood.
- Limit stimulants such as alcohol and caffeine, which can aggravate anxiety.
- Get proper sleep. Most people are sleep deprived. Try a calming Valerian or chamomile tea a few hours before bedtime. Melatonin supplements or magnesium glycinate can be helpful if you start with a low dose and increase as needed. Always ask your healthcare provider first about supplements and interactions with your current medications and health conditions.
- Take a warm bath. Water can be very grounding for most people. Adding 2-4 cups of epsom salts can help you relax.
- Exercise. Find a type of movement that is fun. Dance, walk, yoga, even walking around the block or up the stairs at work will help you rebalance.
- Take deep breaths. Focus on exhaling out longer than you inhale. This will help calm and reset your nervous system.
- Do the best you can and be kind to yourself.
- Go outside. Even If the weather is gloomy, the fresh air will help rebalance your mood and move out stagnant energy. The sunlight is still therapeutic and restorative even if it’s cloudy.
- Get Acupuncture. In a recent study, acupuncture outperformed drug for anxiety treatment.
