Have you ever sent a risky text after overthinking the heck of it? And then, you might as well wanted to just disappear and hide in a corner! Or perhaps, you were still normal! Well, if you relate to the former, then welcome to the club. Being anxious at times is totally human. But, when your anxiety starts micromanaging your life and finds permanent residence in your head, it starts becoming a problem. Don't worry, we are here for your rescue. Here are 7 simple hacks to calm your anxiety down.
Anxiety activates a fight or a flight response in our body even when no real danger is present. We go into survival mode with a pounding heart, trembling hands, and a shaky head. It is tricking your brain into believing you are going to die. I am no doctor but as someone who has dealt with anxiety, I bring you a few hacks that have helped me cope with it better. And, I hope they would help you too.
7 Simple Hacks to Calm Down Anxiety
Catch your breath - simple, isn’t it?
It’s amazing how we forget the basis of our living when we are anxious, which is our breathing. Here's what I do when I am anxious. I sit down and inhale for a count of 4, hold it for 3, and exhale for 5. I relax at the same time, unclench my jaw, drop my shoulders, and try to focus on my breath. It brings your body back to the feel of safety. Tried and tested!
If you think you are wandering off, or cannot concentrate, try using mindfulness apps, like headspace or insight timer.
Practice mindfulness for 15 mins every day to avoid anxiety triggers, and see how it changes the way you perceive things.
Play a game - and no candy crush, please!
Now, this might sound silly but there is no better distraction than a mobile game. It puts you in a different headspace. I usually play chess when I am super anxious and lose at it mostly. But it helps me get over stuff in my mind and start thinking clearly.
You can choose to play anything you like. And if you do not have a game to play, be that kid at a party that goes around asking people if they have games on their phone, lol.
Play some music to soothe anxiety!
Music is an escape like none other. It can make or break your mood in no time. Play something calming and soothing, like, my escape is Prateek Kuhad, or just dance away to some Punjabi music.
I enjoy old school Bollywood, and the new Bollywood cringe too. It makes me believe I am not the only one suffering, just kidding. It’s so bad that it’s good.
Write your thoughts down!
My therapist once asked me to document my triggers for a week, and it was cathartic. It was exhausting but liberating. It’s like talking to someone who is completely willing to listen to all that you want to say. Sounds amazing, right?
Just pour it all out in a diary, or on your phone, or perhaps record a voice note. But letting it all out is the key. It will help you feel lighter, and besides, your secret is safe with you.
Also Read: 5 Promising rules that will ultimately lead to Happiness
Use a stress toy to relieve anxiety
And where do you find them? Those creepy looking smiley balls you see at the back of a car pane? You have played with them but never knew it could help you reduce anxiety, right? Or, even the squishy toys that children play with. They are great stress busters and could relieve anxiety real quick, just hold them and squeeze them slowly, and feel the anxiety leaving your body.
I always have one at my work desk. They work as cute desk decor too.
Take a walk, go cycling
Taking a walk eases your heart rate and lowers the risk of an anxiety attack. You could take 10 rounds in your compound or ride a bicycle, and go all the way out in the neighborhood.
Any kind of physical activity relieves stress and makes you feel calmer. I know it sounds ironic how a tiring exercise can calm you down, but it does. Again, tried and tested!
Take a hot water bath
This one is my personal favorite. There is nothing better than feeling physically fresh on a bad day. Anxiety makes you tired, sweaty, and sick. And so, taking a hot water shower is the best thing to do. It soothes your tight nerves and instantly uplifts your spirits, making you feel better and relaxed.
And what better place to have a full conversation with yourself and think of the perfect comebacks than a shower?
These were some common ways to deal with anxiety at the moment. In the long run, however, if you feel anxious a lot, you should consider seeking therapy. You might think it’s an expensive way to deal with it, but there are lots of inexpensive resources and therapists on the internet. All you gotta do is look for them and a way out of your anxiety.
Well, you probably already know that it’s going to be okay and you do not want to believe it momentarily. I feel you completely, but just hold on, alright? You are already brave to have looked up hacks to relieve your anxiety. Keep seeking help, reach out to people, and stay safe!
Happy Healing :)
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