Anxiety and Stress Reduction Strategies
Tips for AnxietySometimes if you are feeling very anxious and begin to feel out of control, it helps to use the strategy above.Ground yourself by naming 5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, and 1 thing you can taste. As a bonus sit down, close your eyes, and imagine yourself in your favorite place. Then use the grounding strategy again. This can help bring you back to the here and now and can stop the anxiety or worry you were experiencing.
|
Remember What You Can ControlTry to let go of those things that you know you cannot control. You cannot change the actions of other people, you can only control yourself.
Be like Elsa and, "Let it go!" You have a lot of control over important things, your attitude, your interaction with the news or social media, your behavior during this crisis, and your connections with family and friends. Stay within your "Circle of Control." |
Being Kind to Others Helps Your MoodBe the "I" in Kind!
Research is telling us that the simple act of kindness to others can boost our own happiness even (especially?) during difficult times. On the other dropdown page here, "Scattering Sunshine During April" there are 30 ways to increase your happiness. I have listened to a podcast called "The Happiness Lab" and one of my favorite episodes is called "Help Others to Help Yourself" and I will link it here. (You know what, I like some many episodes that I am creating a Happiness Lab page on this website) Be kind to yourself and your friends and family. We all need a little more grace and kindness during this time. |
Stress Management Techniques and Resources
Breathe in sync with this video. Deep breathing is essential to healthy living and and stress management.
When you breathe deeply it sends a message to your brain to relax. You have probably heard that breath is life; well, breath is the beginning of relaxation and balance. "Those things that happen when you are stressed, such as increased heart rate, fast breathing, and high blood pressure all decrease when you breathe deeply to relax." (University of Michigan) Feel free to click this link to learn more. |
I don't really know if you NEED all of these apps, some have a cost associated with them and some are free. You can decide which ones may be the best fit for you. I know that I really like the Calm app and it includes "Sleep Stories" that you can listen to to help you fall asleep and relax. I also really enjoy soothing music. Each one of us is different and may require a different approach to stress reduction. Feel free to check these resources and tools out!
|