Almost everyone has experienced anxiety at some point. Anxiety is a natural feeling of unease and discomfort that can overcome your body when you are stressed. Anxiety can actually be utilized as a positive means for preparation and focus. Conversely, overwhelming anxiety can potentially cripple your personal and professional life. Thankfully, there are many distraction techniques that can moderate anxiety when it interferes with your daily routine.
Relaxation Skills
SupportOnline.org recommends relaxing in a warm and quiet area removed from any noises and distractions, then following a progressive relaxation visualization. Clench and unclench the muscles in your body, and while doing so, envision yourself sitting in a very relaxing environment, something like a tropical beach. Maintain this picturesque image in your mind while you continue your muscle contraction and relaxation movements.
Thought Stopping
Anticipate anxious thoughts and force yourself to stop thinking in such an unproductive manner. Consider wearing a rubber band around your wrist to assist you with this method. When negative thoughts begin to develop, snap the rubber band against your wrist and mentally tell yourself to "stop!" Over time, this tactic can alter the course of your thoughts.
Exercise
The Mayo Clinic advises to add exercise into your regular schedule in order to combat anxiety. According to the Clinic, "exercise is a powerful stress reducer, can improve your mood and keep you healthy." Furthermore, it is difficult to concentrate on two tasks simultaneously, so when exercising it is difficult for you to harbor thoughts that can make you feel anxious.
Socialize
When isolated, you have plenty of time alone to conjure worrisome thoughts that can make you anxious. When you are social and interacting with friends and family, your worries take a back seat.
Mental Games
SupportOnline.org recommends activities such as puzzles, reciting poems, crosswords, word games and counting backwards from 100 as "gimmicks" that can sway your mind from notions that create distress and anxiety.
