Coping Strategies for Managing Anxiety

Feeling nervous or anxious at times happens to everyone. However, being anxious on a regular basis is a sign of anxiety. Dealing with frequent or severe anxiety can affect many aspects of your everyday life, including interpersonal relationships and work. While struggling with anxiety can be difficult, there are healthy ways to train yourself to handle it. Keep the following tips on coping with anxiety in mind.

Exercise Regularly

Making physical activity part of your daily routine can help you deal with anxiety. Exercising causes your brain to produce endorphins, which help you feel calmer and less stressed. Whether you do an entire yoga routine or take short walks around the neighborhood, your body and mind can benefit from regular physical activity.

Try Deep Breathing Exercises

When you’re feeling anxious or stressed, practicing deep breathing can help calm your mind. Breathe in slowly through your nose for a few seconds, then count to six while slowly exhaling. Getting into the habit of doing deep breathing can help you gain better control over your anxiety.

Meditate on a Daily Basis

Meditation can help reduce stress and ease anxiety. Meditating involves letting your thoughts drift through your mind without focusing on any of them. Aim for around 30 minutes of meditation each day, but you might want to start with shorter sessions and work your way up to longer sessions if you’re new to this.

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness involves focusing on the present instead of stressing over the future or dwelling on the past. Bringing your mind to the present can help ease anxiety when you’re feeling stressed. Practice mindfulness on a regular basis, so that you’ll be able to easily steer your mind away from anxious thoughts.

Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Getting enough sleep can make it easier for your body to handle stress and anxiety. Create a comfortable sleep environment in your room, and avoid caffeine, napping, and screens later in the day.