EDITOR ’ S PICK
6 . Do something constructive that shows results . As a child , I hated cleaning . As an adult , cleaning and organizing has become an obsessive addiction because the results are seen and felt immediately . When life feels out of your control , a simple activity like cleaning or crocheting can be incredibly therapeutic and distracting .
7 . Stop blaming yourself . We often feel stress , anxiety or worry because of the responsibility or blame we place on ourselves for things we have very little control over . If , for example , you learn that you ’ re about to lose your job , you may find yourself dwelling on whether you could have prevented this . You may think you could have worked harder . It ’ s important to take responsibility for our actions , but we can ’ t predict and control external events . A sense of control comes at the cost of feeling regret and shame for events over which we often have no control .
8 . Relax . To relax means to do things that physically release stress and tension . Running , walking , swimming or even getting a massage can help . Even if you ’ re not a big fan of exercising , build some physical activity into your day . Any physical activity that releases physical tension from body will help . One of the most effective relaxation methods is simply mindful breathing . Breathe from your abdomen rather than using shallow chest breathing . Inhale slowly while counting to five . Hold your breath and count to five again . Exhale slowly , like you are cooling a spoonful of hot soup . Repeat .
9 . Be social . Don ’ t withdraw . Talk with at least one person who is supportive and understanding enough to offer thoughtful reflective insights each day . These activities do more than distract us from rumination ; they empower , sustain and strengthen us . They allow us to develop a clearer and deeper understanding of our lives and possible ways to address our problems .
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