Understanding and Overcoming Anxiety: Tips for a Calmer Mind

What is Anxiety? Anxiety is a natural emotional response characterized by feelings of worry, fear, or apprehension. It can occur in various situations and can be a normal reaction to stress. However, when anxiety becomes excessive or chronic, it can interfere with daily activities and overall quality of life. Common symptoms can range from excessive worry or fear, feelings of impending doom, fatigue and muscle tension. Anxiety can prevent getting a good night's rest, interactions in social setting, work performance and can be a barrier to feelings of peaceful or joy.

How to Deal with Anxiety (According to a Slightly Overcaffeinated Sloth):

1. Breathe In... Breathe Out... Panic Slightly... Then Breathe Again. You're not being chased by a bear. You're just replying to an email. Probably.

2. Make a To-Do List. Then make a second list to organize the first list. Then color-code it. Then cry a little. Then feel better because at least you're organized.

3. Talk to Yourself Like You’re Your Own Therapist. Hey brain, I see you’re spiraling. Let’s not do that today. Let’s spiral into snacks instead.”

4. Exercise! Or at least put on workout clothes and lie on the floor dramatically. It’s the thought that counts.

5. Meditate. Or sit quietly and think about pizza. Same thing, really.

6. Drink Water. Because dehydration and anxiety are besties. Don’t let them hang out.

7. Avoid Doomscrolling. Unless it’s pictures of baby goats in pajamas. That’s therapeutic.

8. Embrace the Anxiety. Don't view anxiety as an enemy to avoid but as a sensation to acknowledge/accept and name if Fred.