Everyone knows what anxiety is. It is a word we hear about more and more these days and most likely, experience symptoms of anxiety more than we once did. After battling with anxiety my entire life, I want to share with you five ways to get rid of anxiety. I use one or more of them daily.
I would like to caution that if you are under doctor’s care and taking medication for stress and anxiety, please do not stop. Always consult with your health care professional before making any changes.
According to The American Psychological Association, anxiety is an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts, and physical changes like increased blood pressure. For me, it shows up as a tight clenching and nauseating sensation in my stomach. It can present itself before a big life-changing event, a pressing issue with work, or sometimes, for no reason at all.
Whatever the reason for this unwelcome anxiety, I have found that the sooner you work on releasing it the better you will feel.
Silence! (please)
In addition to giving the tips listed below a try, consider turning off your phone, TV, radio, and any other device that you may be tuning into and sit in silence.
Do it for as long as your schedule permits. If you cannot be away from your phone for more than five minutes, then take the five minutes. If you can get to a park, or stand next a tree, or open a window, even better.
Amazing things being to happen when we sit in silence. We can hear ourselves think. We become more creative, calm, and patient.
Our stress and anxiety levels go down.
Five Ways to Get Rid of Anxiety
- Guided Meditation: I use a short guided meditation geared at reducing stress and anxiety that I love. It is on InsightTimer and I highly recommend getting the app and having this mediation handy. I find that after only a few moments, I feel so much better.
- Drink Water: Water is essential for our bodies to function properly and this includes our brains. Dehydration can cause our brains to function inefficiently. Dehydration interferes with your brain’s production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects our mood. So, drink up! (water that is)
- Pressure Point: I went to see a skilled reflexologist (wonderful at reducing stress and anxiety by the way) and she showed me one of the pressure points for reducing anxiety. It is called the Heart 7 and is located on the underside of your wrist on the outer edge front, in the depression. (in the center side of the tendon) You can do this anytime-anywhere and the more you do it, the more peace and tranquility will show up in your life. It also helps with insomnia and anger.
- Breathe: This breathing method slows down your mind and body, instantly relaxing you. Breathe in slowly to the count of five. Hold the breath to the count of five. Release the breath to the count of five. Repeat. If you wish, put lavender essential oil in your palm first, rub palms together and inhale.
- Exercise: Exercise has seen me through some of the most challenging times of my life. The key is to find something that you love to do and then stick to it. Exercise helps keep your mind in the present moment, thus not dwelling on a problem, and also changes the brain’s chemistry by producing serotonin. My absolute favorite thing to hike or jog through a wooded trail. The sounds of birds, insects, and simply being surrounded by trees instantly puts me in a better mood.
The next time anxiety is rearing its ugly head, try one or all of these. They work well together.
Let me know how it goes. I love hearing from you.
Note: This is not intended to replace professional help. If you are experiencing persistent anxiety that is interfering with daily life, please seek advice from a licensed professional.
