10 Ways To Quiet An Anxious Mind
BY JONNIE DAVIS , EDITOR OF BLYSEE . COM
Last week was an intensely stressful week for me to say the least . So on top of the lengthy to-do list I had , and the heaps of studying I had to finish . I ’ m sitting at work , and I get a text from my boyfriend reminding me that I have a doctor ’ s appointment . I involuntarily freak out , knowing I have to get two shots throughout my checkup . When I was a child , I was utterly terrified of needles and not much has changed . On the floor sobbing , I can ’ t catch my breath . I will avoid going near any needle at all cost , so just the thought of visiting the doctor gave me a full-on panic attack . I was anxious the whole night and couldn ’ t focus on anything . Oftentimes our fears and phobias can leave us with a restless mind . We tend to get exceptionally anxious before a substantial event , or in my case a doctor ’ s appointment . Here are some of the ways I soothe an uneasy mind .
1 . GO FOR A WALK
Nature has been proven to help everything from ADHD to productivity . If you have ever taken a walk in the park , completed a hike , or a bike ride outdoors you know how much joy can come from such a simple act . A 25-minute walk in the fresh cool air does miracles for the mind and the body . There is truly nothing more calming than sitting in a park or a peaceful forest to clear your head . Be sure not to bring your phone or any type of electronics so you can truly unplug . Unplugging is great for the soul and any anxious thoughts you may be having . Taking a walk outside is the perfect time to turn off the phone and be fully present in the moment . Bring along your friends or a family member for some extra laughs .
2 . MEDITATE FOR 15 MINUTES
Meditation helps to quiet an overactive mind . If you are feeling restless meditation helps to get
rid of fearful racing thoughts . Meditating has tremendous benefits but can be intimidating for a beginner . I started meditating every day almost six months ago , and it has been amazing for my health and well-being . Let me tell you now it is not an easy thing and takes lots of practice and concentration . The benefits make it worth the effort . Meditation improves your immune system , lowers blood pressure , and of course reduces stress . If you ’ re not sure how to meditate there are plenty of videos to walk you through the process .
3 . UNPLUG ( NO EMAILS OR SOCIAL MEDIA )
Many of us have an unhealthy attachment to our phones and social media . If you want to put your mind at ease stay offline , especially social media . It can be a cause of unneeded stress and anxiety . You don ’ t need any stress on top of stress already present . Relax , and take a break from social media . The emails will still be there waiting for you when you come back .
4 . PRACTICE GRATITUDE
When you are in a place of gratitude , you will feel so much more composed , and at peace . I like to think about all the beauty currently in my life . When my mind is feeling anxious it helps me to feel calm and that things are going to be okay .
5 . LISTEN TO YOUR FAVORITE TUNES OR CALMING SOUNDS
Music seriously can do wonders for a restless mind , it soothes the mind , and gives it rest . Close your eyes and put on your favorite songs . If music proves to be too much , turn on some soothing sounds .
6 . CRY IT OUT
Sometimes all you really need is to just let it all out . When you ’ re done you will feel so much better . Crying is a natural and healthy human response to disappointment and sorrow . It is a natural way to get rid of emotional stress , and when it is left unchecked it can even have negative physical effects on the body . So go ahead and let it all out ; when you ’ re done you will feel 10 times better .
7 . TAKE A LONG RELAXING BATH
A warm bath gets rid of tensed muscles and puts you in a relaxing mindset . Light some candles , and throw in some Lush bath bombs to further set the soothing mood .
8 . SLEEP IT OFF
Jump into some comfortable pajamas and give yourself a break for a while . Not only will you feel refreshed , you will give your mind a break from racing thoughts .
9 . READ YOUR FAVORITE BOOK OR BLOG
Instead of watching television or scrolling through your social media feed grab your favorite book . Preferably one you ’ ve read before , this way your mind doesn ’ t need to travel too far .
10 . PRACTICE MINDFULNESS
Focus on being aware of the present moment . Calmly acknowledge how you are feeling and the thoughts you are having . Don ’ t try to pretend they are not there . Feelings are just that , let them come and let them go .
Jonnie Davis is not affiliated with Cetera Advisor Networks , LLC , or CWM , LLC . Opinions expressed by the author may not be representative of Cetera Advisor Networks , LLC , or CWM , LLC .
8 | THE HEALTHY , WEALTHY , WISE AND HAPPY JOURNAL