Ways to Reduce Anxiety

Be yourself; Everyone else is already taken.
— Oscar Wilde.

Many of us go through life focusing too much on the future or on the past and never fully appreciate life in the now. Some of us constantly think about what we’re going to say before we say it (myself included!) out of fear of being criticized. I believe it’s impossible for someone NOT to have anxiety every once in awhile.

As my anxiety grew into something larger than myself I decided it was time to do something about it. I was tired of living like a bird in a cage,stuck in one place. I am still discovering the best ways on how to deal with my anxiety and depression. Here are some ways I have dealt with those that could possibly help you!

Mediation

Ah, mediation. When I first heard of mediation, my mind immediately pictured young adults in bright clothing trying to reach enlightenment while smoking a shit ton of weed. But mediation can be practiced by anyone! Simple breathing techniques can build a stronger immune system, improve blood circulation, and lower your heart rate. Your stress levels also decrease. It can be hard to get in the habit of something new, but with practice, you can achieve anything!

Mediation Apps for IOS and Android:

Insight Timer

Calm

Aura

Omvana

Stop Taking Stimulants

Stimulants include methamphetamine, caffeine, nicotine, cocaine and ecstasy. They trigger negative aftereffects and grow stronger with repeated exposure. Non-medical use of stimulants can make you at risk for health problems, including addiction and cardiovascular malfunction. High doses result in restlessness and agitation. Chronic use can cause psychosis, paranoia, and suicidal tendencies.

Exercise and Eat Properly

Depression and Anxiety can be caused by many various factors, but diet is a big factor to consider when reducing anxiety. Fitness/ healthy eating are not only good for you biologically but culturally as well. Try to begin a diet that consists primarily of lean meats, fruits, vegetables, and grains. Also keep in mind that the average person gets up to eight 8-ounce glasses a day (2 liters or half a gallon).

Foods To Consume

Carbohydrates – triggers the release of serotonin and tryptophan (an amino acid) that produces feelings of well being; you get carbohydrates from whole grains, pasta, fruits and veggies.

Proteins – contain essential amino acids; meats, milk, eggs, and other dairy products.

Get Enough Sleep

Sleeping gives resting neurons time to repair themselves and restores brain tissue. It also feeds creative thinking and plays a role in growth. Sleep deprivation causes diminished productivity, difficulty studying, a tendency to make mistakes, and irritability.

If sleep deprivation occurs for a long period of time, you could begin having hallucinations, paranoia, or induce mania in those with bipolar. Here are some tips to fall asleep!

See Your Doctor

Sometimes, we believe we are so mentally strong that we don’t seek help. Anxiety is difficult to overcome alone. If you have done all of these and reduced stressful environmental factors, it may be time to seek help and possibly get on medication. There might be many trials and errors, but once you discover the right one, you will feel like yourself.

TL;DR

Meditation
Stop Stimulant Intake
Exercise and Eat Healthy
Get Enough Sleep
See Your Doctor

If you have taken the time to read this article, thank you! I hope you find the time and motivation to better yourself and possibly take heed of my advice. I’m also very interested in your progress towards a happy lifestyle so please comment below on your self-care routine! Have a wonderful day xxx