A key focus of my blog is Health/Wellness. A key component of our personal health is our mental health. A common condition many people grapple with is anxiety. The world isn’t over because you experience it though. The following contributed post is entitled, Dealing With Anxiety, In Creative Ways.
* * *
Photo: Unsplash
The current situation can cause anxiety in any person, those who are already suffering from it may experience more severe attacks and those who have not suffered from anxiety in the past, the stressful situation can certainly spark something off. Anyone who has experienced anxiety in the past or suffers from it even today knows that when the symptoms appear it is very difficult to function. Poor mental health can affect physical health also. The disturbing thoughts and constant worries can take over our brain and the physical symptoms (like accelerated heartbeat, chest pain, unsettled feeling, headaches) can affect our body. So how do you get back in shape when all this is happening? There are several methods that psychologists recommend to get back to yourself when you are feeling anxious. These techniques can help you control your anxiety, but if you feel that they do not help, you should consult a psychologist to find the right treatment for you. There are also creative ways to feel better.
Smells alight many emotions!
Aromas can tantalise our emotions in many ways. To make us feel sad, to evoke old memories and also…to calm. Lavender is particularly useful and has been used for centuries to calm the body and mind. Who knew our sense of smell could also calm us down when we needed to? As well as lavender, you should also consider eucalyptus or mint oil. You can find essential oils in health food stores and the next time you feel stressed, just burn it in a diffuser or oil burner. Try it at night or spritz some on your pillow.
Visuals to relax
Watching something relaxing can stimulate the relaxation muscle, so to speak! Whether that is watching a traditional spinning top – you may want to look at the Longest Spinning Top for inspiration. Or perhaps a hand fidgeter. You could even become immersed in watching a lava lamp. These techniques offer the mind a distraction, which can help calm; almost as if you are being beckoned into a trance.
Breathing techniques to relieve stress
Many therapists encourage their patients to practice deep breathing techniques. Breathing is an automatic act of survival; and it is also controllable. When you notice that you are flooded with anxious thoughts, using your breathing as a tool for self-calming can be very effective. One expert tells us, “breathe in and count to five, hold your breath and count to 2 and then breathe out and count to 10. When you breathe more out, it gives a message to your nervous system to relax.”
Create a tune?!
Another way to bring yourself back to reality is to start singing! Music after all is the ultimate to calm the mind. When you feel the anxiety gripping your throat and stomach and spreading throughout your body, just start singing something. No matter what it is, just start making a tune. It is a proven method and can be beneficial for those wanting to assist their breathing techniques.
