Exercises To Calm Your Anxious Thoughts

Anxiety is a very mysterious emotion.

Most of us have experienced anxiety in the context of a new situation, or life change. Sometimes the feeling is a mix of excitement and fear blended in a three-dimension shape that we struggle to find a place for. In these occasions, we are able to manage and overcome without additional help. This is what we call situation driven anxiety, which is an appropriate response for change or any new situation that we encounter. It helps us feel more prepared and gives us energy and focus.

Other times, we have a roaming feeling of nervousness perhaps in social situations, or when exposed to certain noises, certain personalities, or circumstances that remind us of a painful past experience. There are also times where we have an overall and constant worry that never seem to dissipate. No matter what we do. The worry is always there, moving from one person/area to the next. In these situations, we can become paralyzed by fear. Or we develop a reluctance to be placed in the situations that make us feel nervous or anxious. This avoidance component of anxiety, is generally indicative of a unhelpful trait of our anxiety.

In order for us to transcend fear/worry/anxiety we must be able to tolerate some of these feelings, while calming our nervous system with appropriate tools. Every person is different, and therefore will respond differently to each suggested strategy. If you are able and willing to explore a new way; it is inevitable that we will feel better.

Here are some ideas on how to walk through anxious thoughts:

• Seeking meaningful connection with a trusted loved one.

• Positive Affirmations (I am strong, I am capable, I will get through this moment).

• Grounding Techniques (writing, breathing, focused attention on a specific task, holding on to a token or meaningful object)

• Guided meditation

• Exposure to nature (Going on a walk in nature, the beach, or any other natural environment)

• Exercise/Stretching