Life changes can shake any of us, folks, but it’s even more pronounced for those of us who already consistently suffer from anxiety. Although there’s nothing you can do to prevent major life changes from happening sometimes, you can take some steps to help make your journey a little smoother.
Get yourself organized
When you are organized, you are less likely to invite stress–and therefore anxiety–into your life. By just getting things in order at your work or at home, you can help clear your mind and lower your stress levels. So get some bins, a trash can and shelving and get yourself in order. Dump anything that is distracting you from being organized.
Get a little comfortable
Don’t rely on “comfort” foods that aren’t great for your health when you’re anxious. Find other ways to make yourself feel more comfortable. Try doing activities you used to love as a child, or spend some time with a close family friend.
Breathe in
A very simple thing like breathing can go unnoticed when you’re anxious, but you may be taking shallow breaths and not even know it. Check to see if your belly is filling with air when you breathe. If not, take a moment and inhale deeply through your nose. Allow this breath to fill your belly, and then exhale out of your mouth fully. Known as deep breathing, this is also a form of meditation that can help ease stress.
Contact a loved one
Get in touch with a close relative or friend so you can ease your mind. Just a short conversation with a loved one can restore some of your mental energy and help you get through a new life change. Contact the person in the way that normally works best for your relationship, such as in person, on the phone or via email.
Try some exercise
Just taking a walk can help ease your anxiety, and it’s good for your health overall. too. Regular exercise can help reduce stress and lower anxiety as well, so if you don’t work out regularly, now is the time to come up with a routine and make it happen. If you’ve struggled to work out in the past, try to make it into a habit. Work out at the same time each day, and always strive to get a session in.
