Anxiety has a way of creeping into your life at the worst possible moment. The racing thoughts before bed and uneasy stomach before a meeting, or that tight chest feeling when everything feels too overwhelming. Anxiety is completely normal for some people, especially when it’s occasional.
But learning how to manage it can greatly improve your quality of life from using Wellness tools and mindful habits. There are plenty that you can do, and we’ve got 6 lifestyle hacks that can help to make anxiety easier to manage.
- Build structure into your day. Anxiety thrives in uncertainty, so starting your day with a clear morning routine will create a sense of predictability and control. Whether it’s making your bed, journaling for 5 minutes, or doing some light stretching, even the smallest of actions that you do repetitively can help you to keep your brain anchored and routine going. Knowing what your first hour looks like stops you from spinning out in your head before the day even starts.
- Look to calm your nervous system. One of the fastest ways to ease your anxiety is by focusing on your breath. Try simple techniques like the Four 7-8 method. Inhale for four seconds, hold for seven, exhale for 8. This helps to slow your heart rate and signals to your body that it is safe to relax. Even just a couple of minutes of mindful breathing can reduce your stress levels and bring you back into the present moment.
- Incorporate natural supports. For those looking for an extra layer of calm, a Delta 8 tincture may be worth exploring. Delta 8 THC is a cannabinoid that’s known for its calming and mildly uplifting effects without the intense high of delta 9. Many people find it helpful for easing racing thoughts and relaxing the body, especially when anxiety starts to hit hard. Just be sure that you choose a high quality product and start with a low dose to see how it affects you.
- And overstimulation. Caffeine and sugar can both worsen anxiety symptoms. If you’re already feeling on edge, that second coffee might push you over. Try switching to herbal teas or a low caffeine option like matcha. Also pay attention to overstimulation from noise, screams, and clutter. Turning down the volume in your environment can help you to turn down the volume in your mind.
- Move your body. Exercise is one of the most effective and underused anxiety tools available. You don’t need an intense workout, but even a brisk 20 minute walk can release endorphins and improve your mood.
- Practice acceptance, not resistance. One of the most powerful shifts that you can make is learning to observe your anxiety without judgement. Instead of trying to fix it right away, try to acknowledge it. Acknowledge how you feel and make sure that you know that it’s OK to feel that way. It’s a kind of mental self compassion that reduces resistance and can actually help the anxiety to pass.
Anxiety doesn’t have to control your life. With the right tools, you can build habits that bring peace, balance, and clarity even during stressful moments and ultimately manage anxiety.
