Anxiety disorders can stem from financial, work or family stress and can send you reeling into a pattern of negative thinking. Doubts, fears and continually worrying about what might happen, in a particular situation or in general, can cause you to be in a constant state of fight-or-flight. Numerous health problems can ensue, including weight gain or weight loss, fatigue, inability to sleep and an elevated heart rate. There are several effective ways to deal with your anxiety, which can help you put your worries and your mind to rest.
Step 1
Let go of control. It can be common for people to want to know exactly what is going to happen or the outcome to a particular situation, and not knowing can cause anxiety. However, by learning that you cannot control every situation, you might be able to let go of the need to know, or the control itself, which can relieve your anxiety. Develop an understanding that there will be uncertainty in your life from time to time.
Step 2
Focus on the positive aspects of the situation. Life does throw you curve balls from time to time, and shocking circumstances can cause anxiety. However, many situations that outwardly appear to be stressful also contain a positive element to them. Focus on the positive of what's going on at the moment, and over time, that can become a habit, so that you will learn to see the benefit in challenges.
Step 3
Practice yoga, which can help you relieve stress while also teaching you how to focus on the moment. Yoga links your mind and breath with your body movements, emphasizing that the three are constantly connected. This can help you to see that how you think has an effect on your body and possibly can help you realize that negative thoughts can lead to negative physical problems. Plus, attempting to master the challenging yoga poses will help you forget about your problems for 60 or 90 minutes. This can help put things in perspective and might allow you to develop solutions rather than new worries.
Step 4
Avoid sugary foods, as well as those that are processed or contain saturated or trans fats. Unhealthy foods can add stress to your body rather than relieve it. They can lead to a hormonal reaction in your body that causes insulin and cortisol to be released, which will only make you crave more sugary and fatty foods, and deplete you of energy. Instead, fuel your brain with healthy lean meats, fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Things You'll Need
- Yoga class
- Lean protein
- Fruit
- Vegetables
- Whole grains
