Friday, May 2, 2008

Anxiety: Learning To Deal With It

Learning to deal with stress and anxiety can be a difficult task - as a matter of fact, if you take it too seriously it can add to your stress. So the point is to learn to accept that some stress and anxiety is inevitable - no matter who you are, how much money you make, where you live, etc., etc. We all have stress in our lives and we must as individuals find ways to deal with it - ways that work for us.

Another problem is the fact that some people simply do not utilize appropriate coping mechanisms when they experience feelings of anxiety and stress. Did you know that suppressing your feelings may be one of the worst things you can do for your health?

It is vital that you find a way to deal with stress that will work for you. Some people find that they can tolerate stress better if they take a break from reality for a period of time. Fortunate individuals are able to take actual vacations or perhaps visit a spa.

But many of us have to accept a smaller version of that and use our minds to take a break. This can be done in a matter of minutes and it really can change the way you feel. The next time you are feeling stressed try closing your eyes and imagining the most magnificent place you can.

Make this your ‘escape haven’. When you think about this place make it wonderful – but keep in mind that this is your place and only your place. You get to design in whatever fashion you like. The colors do not have to relate to what is real or in nature – you can have purple trees and a blue sun in an orange sky if you like.

It’s your private escape. Let this be a place you can go to in your mind at anytime at all. Here you are safe and trouble free – all is good. You are rested and happy.

You may find that breathing exercises help with your stress as well. Practice controlled breathing. Breathe in deeply and hold that for just a moment before you let the air escape. Make your breathing regular and even.

If you find that something is stirring up stressful thoughts try the old favorite of talking yourself down, telling yourself that it will be all right. Be your own friend! If you cannot escape from reality for the time it takes to do any of those things you may find that through controlled breathing and a simple counting to ten you are able to regain composure.

Journaling seems to be very helpful for many people. Since you are encouraged to share your problems – with a t least one other person – believe me, many of us would rather not share – it helps to put those thoughts down on paper. We can even burn the paper afterward but just getting the thoughts out seems to help.

Most of us are guilty of using inappropriate coping mechanisms - at least once in a while to deal with our stress and anxiety. This might mean that we resort to using food as a comfort tool, or we lash out at friends or family members. Most of us realize when we've done this and try to do better next time - but for some, this is the constant coping techniques used. Obviously that can result in bigger problems.

Regardless, we all need little ways to help us ‘get through’ our stressful times. Try various techniques until you find something that works for you! To learn more about anxiety and ways to cope with it please click on any link in this blog.

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