by Natasa Kvesic|
Sometimes daily stresses build up into a big mound in your body that causes some major feelings of angst and anxiety. But there are ways to break down those feelings and deal with them head on.
- Recognize your own signs of stress. People process their anxiety in different ways, so learning what your symptoms are can help you plan how you’re going to deal with it.
- Tell yourself it’s going to be okay. When dealing with anxiety, it’s easy to tell yourself that all the worst is going to happen and that your day is completely ruined. Get into the habit of reframing how you see a successful day.
- Do some deep breathing exercises. Breathe in for four seconds through your nose and then slowly breathe out for seven seconds. Make sure to completely fill your lungs up with air. Repeat the same breathing exercise until you feel your heart rate go back down to normal.
- Use aromatherapy. If you have any essential oils, or know somebody that does, use them. Great brands include NOW Essential Oils and Starwest Essential Oils, which are available at the New Seasons close to school. The best mix of essential oils you can have is peppermint and lavender. When you’re feeling anxious, put two drops of each on your wrists and then one drop of each behind your ears. Inhale the scents and think happy thoughts!
- Listen to some calming music. Find playlists on Spotify that are full of “songs to unwind to.” They’re jam-packed full of smooth jazz, light folk and classical music. Make a cup of chamomile or green tea and try to pay attention to the music instead of how anxious you feel.
- Talk to somebody. It will comfort you to know that so many people deal with feelings of anxiety on a daily basis. Find a person who’s a great listener and who won’t belittle your worries. And you never know, you could be helping others while searching for help yourself.
