What can I do to deal with stress and anxiety?
Any kind of change can bring on anxiety and fear. When we are anxious, we feel it in our minds and our bodies. When feeling anxiety, it is important to try to do what relaxes you so you can find a way to cope with the changes. What are the most important things to do when you’re anxious is check your breathing. When we feel stressed, we tend to breathe shallow and fast. To slow your breath down, take a deep breath through your nose and hold it for a second. Then exhale through your mouth. Do this several times. When your breathing slows down, it is easier to focus and deal with whatever problem you’re facing.
Another great way to relax is to practice visualization. Try to think about your “happy place “and utilize all five senses. For example, close your eyes and picture yourself on a beach. Inhale and think about what you might SMELL. Suntan lotion, salt water, etc. Then think about what you might HEAR. Seagulls, kids playing, the waves. What do you TASTE? Perhaps a glass of lemonade or ice cream. Maybe some salt water that girl got into your mouth? Next, think about what you FEEL. The warmth of the sun on your face, the sand between your fingers and toes. Lastly, what do you SEE? The waves, sunbathers, Sandcastles. While you do this, be sure to remember to breathe deeply and slowly.
Those are just two examples of what you can do when you feel the stress piling up on you. My advice is to practice those often, even when you don’t think you need it. The more you practice relaxation, the easier it will be for you to recall this when you really need it.