Finding Calm in a Hectic World: Tips for Managing Stress and Anxiety

In today’s world, stress and anxiety have become unavoidable.

From classes, to work schedules, to other personal responsibilities, it can feel like there is no escape from the demands of daily life. But with the right strategies, we can take control of our stress and anxiety. Whether you’re looking for quick fixes or long-term solutions, these tips and tricks are guaranteed to lower your stress and anxiety levels.

Sleep/Relaxation

Sleep and relaxation are vital when managing your stress and anxiety because they allow your mind and body to reset and recharge. Having a good night’s sleep makes it easier to stay positive throughout the day and regulate your emotions. When you’re well rested, it’s much easier to handle your stress and you’ll wake up feeling excited to take on the day. Relaxation allows you a break to unwind and do something you enjoy. Reading a book, taking a walk, or watching some of your favorite movies are great ways to incorporate relaxation into your daily routines.

Spending time with loved ones

Spending time with loved ones is a great way to feel supported and connected to those who understand you best. When you’re around people you trust, it’s easier to share your worries and collectively come up with solutions. Friends and family can offer advice, reassurance, and a listening ear, which can make stress and anxiety feel a little more manageable. Along with this, being around those you love is a guaranteed serotonin boost that can uplift your spirits and make you want to continue your day with an open mind.

Completing tasks, even if they are small

Completing tasks, even small ones, gives you a sense of accomplishment that can build up your confidence and make the challenges you have ahead easier to face. It also allows your mind to declutter a little, clearing out the small tasks that can pile up quickly. I suggest listing out all the things on your to-do list so you’re able to check things off and see that you are accomplishing your goals. It may sound simple to do the small, everyday tasks, but it’s a very effective way to decrease your stress and anxiety levels.

Pursue hobbies

Taking part in hobbies that you enjoy is a great way to reduce your stress and anxiety. Finding something you enjoy doing can take your mind off things worrying you and provide a mental break. Hobbies can serve as creative outlets that allow you to get away from negative thoughts. Depending on the hobby, it can also offer social connection and companionship and enhance feelings of support and belonging. Hobbies can also provide you with a sense of accomplishment and improve your mental focus, reducing negative thoughts.

Deep breathing

It may seem simple, but taking a deep breath here and there can really improve your stress and anxiety. Allowing yourself to take a second and breathe can relieve pressure on your mind and body and provide some relaxation. Deep breathing is a great way to slow your heart rate and ease any tension. It also allows you to pause and feel more grounded and in control. By practicing deep breathing, you can handle anxiety and feel more at ease in stressful situations.

Reduce caffeine intake

Caffeine is a stimulant that increases heart rate and blood pressure, which in turn can increase feelings of stress and anxiety. Even when you’re taking caffeine to have more energy, a lack of caffeine allows for more stable energy levels, improved sleep quality, and an overall calmer state of mind. If given too much caffeine, your body can crash, ultimately increasing anxiety and stress. So next time you want that extra cup of coffee or an energy drink to get you through the last few hours of the day, consider how much caffeine you’ve already had for the day and discern whether you really need it.

Stay active/productive

Staying active and productive is a great way to keep your mind off stressors in your life. Physical activity releases endorphins that boost your mood and make you feel more positive. Productivity creates a sense of accomplishment, in turn reducing feelings of anxiety and increasing confidence. By staying engaged, you not only stay physically healthy, but also create stability, making it easier to cope with stress and anxiety.

Journal

Journaling is a great tool for managing stress and anxiety. Writing down thoughts and feelings helps you to clear your mind and process feelings. It is a great way to release pent-up feelings, reduce overwhelming attitudes, and gain a perspective of why you may be feeling anxiety or stress. Take some time to reflect on your day, write down what’s going well and what could be improved, and consider some things you are grateful for. Doing this can help shift your negative outlook to a positive one. By integrating journaling into your daily routine, you create a space for self-expression and care, which can make it easier to understand and manage your stress and anxiety.

Next time you find yourself overwhelmed and concerned, take some time for self-care and use these strategies to reduce your levels of stress and anxiety. And remember, positivity goes a long way. So always try to find the silver lining and don’t get caught up in the negatives of life.

Be Well, Auburn.