I was diagnosed with anxiety many, many years ago when I was in high school. It is human nature to worry, however, when it affects your day to day functions you may have an issue.
“Anxiety is love’s greatest killer. It makes others feel as you might when a drowning man holds on to you. You want to save him, but you know he will strangle you with his panic.” – Anaïs Nin
For any of you that struggle with anxiety, you will know that it can be extremely debilitating. Worrying, having trouble sleeping, self-consciousness, indigestion and irrational fears can all be signs that you need to seek help.
“Your mind is your prison when you focus on your fear.” -Tim Fargo
Did you know that according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, anxiety disorders affect about 40 million Americans? While taking medication for anxiety can help, anxiety never goes away completely. There are days that I have to take steps to ease my anxiety.
Here are my top 3 steps to lessen anxiety;
1. Meditation
I highly recommend reading this article by Julie Corliss, Harvard Health Publishing (Harvard Medical School) for learning how ‘Mindfulness meditation may ease anxiety, mental stress.’ According to this study done by JAMA Internal Medicine, they found that “mindfulness meditation programs had moderate evidence of improved anxiety on the participants of their study.” I personally love Andrew Johnson’s meditation videos and apps. Andrew has a very soothing voice that calms me and gets me in a better headspace.
2. Epsom Salt Baths
Magnesium is mother nature’s Xanax. I was shocked to learn that since much of our food is grown in magnesium-depleted soil, many of us are deficient. Epsom Salt Baths are a great way to relax because the magnesium sulfate in the salts can lower blood pressure and ease anxiety. I love to add some lavender essential oil into my bath for even more relaxation.
3. Exercise
Exercise can make such a difference in your life. In fact, many say it is the best anti-anxiety medicine. Find something you love and stick with it; yoga, Tai Qi, pilates, even walking. Sustainability here is key.
“Life is ten percent what you experience and ninety percent how you respond to it.”
-Dorothy M. Neddermeyer
I hope that these three steps will help you as much as they have helped me. Even if you only have a few minutes, find a quiet place to relax and center yourself each day. Most importantly, remember that you are not alone in your struggle with anxiety.
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